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Exploring new cultures and traditions is an exceptional method of acquiring knowledge. Consider the traditions that distinguish your family or community. Would your customs appear peculiar to others?
As you travel the world, you will encounter customs that may appear peculiar to you; however, they are precisely what render traveling such an expedition.
Differing Cultures in Europe
Occasionally, we consider certain, more popular European countries for travelers to visit, including Great Britain, France, Spain, and Italy. Nevertheless, Europe and its extensive history and culture comprise a plethora of other attractions, such as the grand architecture of Austria, the Christmas markets of Germany, and the impressive art museums of the Netherlands.
Festivals and traditions that have been in existence for centuries are another significant component of European culture, as they contribute to the identification of a nation and its inhabitants. A significant number of these traditions, which date back centuries, are still observed today.
Unique European Traditions and Customs
The diverse customs and traditions of Europe, from the British Isles to central Europe, Italy, and northern European countries such as Sweden, provide captivating opportunities to truly understand a country and its people.
- The Blackening of the Bride: Scotlandblackening-bride-and-groom
The name of this tradition evokes a variety of intriguing images and thoughts. In reality, it is exactly as it sounds.
In Scotland, the bride’s friends and family convene to drape her in a variety of filthy and repulsive items. Mud, condiments, spoiled milk, and other unsanitary substances are employed. The logical inquiry is, “Why?” Why would anyone desire to engage in this activity? The theory posits that if the couple can endure the “humiliation” associated with the blackening, they will be able to endure any challenge that life may present.
Doesn’t it evoke a sense of appreciation for “something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue?”
- Flag Throwing in Tuscany
Wine, olives, pasta, and the Tuscan sun are typically the first things that come to mind when one thinks of Tuscany. However, flag tossing is an especially significant tradition.
During the medieval era, the flag of a guild was regarded as a symbol of purity and was prohibited from touching the earth. The tradition of flag tossing originated from this. Currently, this custom is perpetuated during festivals, during which young men and women execute synchronized acrobatic performances that involve the tossing and capturing of flags. This is an awe-inspiring spectacle that is a must-see while in Tuscany.
- The Frog Dance (Små grodorna) – Sweden
Upon hearing “The Frog Dance,” what image does it create in your mind? It is difficult to fathom, is it not?
The Små grodorna, or Small Frog Dance, is a Swedish tradition in which participants engage in song and dance around a maypole during midsummer celebrations. The Onion Song was the name of the melody that was created during the French Revolution. The lyrics have been modified over the years to address the absence of ears and tails in frogs.
The body elements that frogs lack are invoked by the dance movements of today. It is an excellent method for enjoying oneself and being frivolous.
- The Maypole (Maibaum) in Austria
The Maypole is an essential component of numerous European traditions and conventions. Summer festivals and celebrations typically involve the erection of a substantial wooden pole for the purpose of dancing around it.
This tradition is accompanied by a small amount of good-natured thievery in Austria, as the residents of one village endeavor to steal the maypole from a neighboring village. Local regulations frequently stipulate that guardians are permitted to be enticed away from the maypole and are prohibited from using their hands to protect it, as the event is intended to be amusing. Schnapps and other alcoholic beverages are frequently included in this tradition, as you may have guessed.
- The Chivalric Tournament (Sinjska Alka) in Croatia
Images of King Arthur’s England may be suggested by knights, horses, and lances. However, in 1715, a renowned battle was conducted in Croatia, in which the knights of Sinj emerged victorious over the more powerful Turkish army.
Tradition dictates that only males born in Sinjska Krajina are eligible to participate in The Chivalric Tournament since that victory. The knights attempt to strike a small target with their lances while riding at a full pace on thundering horses, a tradition that happens each August. This European tradition provides exhilaration, adrenaline, and showmanship.
Organizing Your Upcoming European Journey
Join us on one of our guided excursions to these fascinating destinations, including Ultimate Greece & Italy, Sights of Scotland, and our Norwegian Fjords cruise, to experience the diverse traditions, customs, and cultures of Europe.