subject: Celebrate The History Of Roses [print this page] As the most recognized and favored flower, the rose is in a class of its own. With a beautiful form, scent and habit, it's no wonder roses have been used in the past for both practical and decorative reasons. The history of roses is diverse and ranges over many different civilizations.
The remains of rose fossils indicate that they were used as far back as 35 million years ago, likely for their medicinal purposes. Both the petals of a rose and rose hips are known to have healing properties. Fossilized roses have been discovered in Europe, Asia and North America.
The Emperor of China loved his roses as well. Records from 500 BC indicate his desire to grow and cultivate the flower. The care and diligence of that habit shows how important the rose was to the powerful empire.
The symbolism of the rose emerged in ancient Greece, where they used the flower to mark the location of secret meetings. Hence the term sub rosa, or "under the rose." Rhodes, a Greek island is also named for the flowers.
Moving forward to ancient Roman civilization, we see the rose beginning to be included as a fashion statement and a scent and scene to indulge in. Cleopatra used rose petals to carpet the floors of her home and her barge, adding fuel to the vision of the supposedly sultry queen. Emperor Nero also decorated with petals and flowers throughout his dining tables.
The association with Christianity and the Virgin Mary likely didn't come about until later, as the early converts may have linked roses to the excess and paganism of Rome. Venus, the Roman goddess of love was symbolized by the rose. This is perhaps why we still associate the flower with adoration and romance.
Throughout Europe and Britain, the history of roses extends into folklore, literature and architecture. Red roses were associated with martyrs and the flower was often incorporated into heraldry. The famous Wars of the Roses in fifteenth century England embedded the symbol even further into western culture. When the Tudor dynasty came into power later on, they made sure both the Lancaster red and York white roses were included in their coat of arms.
Christian legend states that long ago a monk began creating rose garlands as an act of worship. Prayers recited along with the creation resulted in a vision of the beloved Catholic rosary and so the devotion began.
An endearing architectural feature throughout Europe is the rose window. Built to reflect the petals of the flower, these windows are mostly in the churches and palaces of the Continent.
Empress Josephine, wife of Napoleon of France, built an impressive rose garden at Malmaison. Rumors claim that the garden had every known rose cultivar of the day, as much as 250 different types of the bloom.
From Shakespeare to Robbie Burns, the bloom is often mentioned in literature and poetry. As a way to communicate drama, love and sacrifice, these flowers are the perfect symbols.
The history of roses is rich throughout all cultures. To impress, indulge or simply enjoy, roses are the ideal choice.
