Breaking the česnica at Christmas is one of the customs which is being conducted around numerous Serbian households, but also at the squares around Serbia. Traditionally, the largest česnica is broken at the Republic Square, every January 7th.
Christmas holidays have always represented the most ceremonial part of a year, because they are a synonym for a family, friends and warmth that follows them. Serbian people are known for the unique customs which adorn these holidays and fill the hearts of those who apply them.
One of them is the traditional manifestation which gathers the citizens who want to start their Christmas morning with the ritual of breaking the Christmas bread in the presence of a large number of people. This custom is almost the same as the one conducted in the warmth of the family house. Česnica is traditionally baked in the early Christmas morning, and several silver or regular coins are being put in it.
The only difference is that this bread weighs almost 50 kg and that it is being turned around by the large number of present citizens. With the prayer and the best wishes for the forthcoming year, česnica is being broken in number of pieces matching the number of people who are present at that moment.
When everyone gets their piece, the search for the coin is about to start. The luckiest ones will find the coin which symbolizes happiness throughout the year.
The custom is that the coins go to the youngest ones, so this event becomes even warmer and more beautiful. With smiles, Christmas wishes and exchanged impressions, the merry people hurry back to their homes so they could spend the rest of a day with their closest ones at traditional Christmas lunch.
Breaking the Christmas bread (česnica) was moved from Terazije to the Republic Square where it will be traditionally held this 7th of January at 12 o’clock. Those who want to enjoy the interesting folklore program, will be able to do that an hour earlier.
Merry Christmas!
Featured photo: www.blic.rs
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