Author: Roxana Pușcu
Every year, on 1 March, Romania and its diaspora is filled with red and white strings, given to loved ones at school and work. In all sorts of cute shapes, from the familiar ladybugs and baskets to snowdrops and other symbols loved by everyone, the baubles become little messages of spring. They are often joined by fragrant hyacinths and beautiful greetings, given as a sign of joy, hope and new beginnings with the end of the cold season and the rebirth of nature.
The marquis may look like a simple gesture, a small symbol on a string, but behind it lies a tradition thousands of years old, full of myth, hope and meaning, which we're going to uncover today.
Where does marzipan come from?
It's said that the martyr has its origins as far back as the Dacians and Thracians, when the new year began in spring in March. Back then, people wore amulets tied with red and white threads for protection, health and good luck. It was not a decorative accessory, but a really serious talisman.
Archaeologists have even uncovered red and white coloured pebbles worn around the neck, more than 8,000 years old. Yes, maris is older than many of the customs we think of as „traditional”.
Myths, legends and Baba Dochia
As with any old tradition, the Martyr's Day comes with stories. One of the best-known is the legend of the Dochia, who climbs the mountain at the beginning of March, shedding her coats, convinced that spring has come. The ending isn't exactly happy, but the message is clear: nature changes, even if not always when you expect it to.
Another legend tells of the Sun's battle with the forces of darkness, and the blood spilled to free the light would have given birth to the red thread, interwoven with the white of the snow. Dramatic? Dramatic. Symbolic? Very.
What does the red-white string actually mean?
White and red are not chosen at random: white symbolises purity, beginnings and light, while the red thread refers to life, energy and love. Paired together, they tell a story of balance between winter and spring, fragility and strength, the past and what is to come.
How does it behave and what to do with it?
Traditions differ from region to region. Some wear the maris for a few days, others for the whole month of March. At the end, it is tied to the branch of a flowering tree for good luck and wish fulfilment. Basically, we're giving nature back a symbol of spring.
The modern-day marquise
Today, the mărțiș has evolved from simple coins and amulets to jewellery, brooches and small handicrafts. But the meaning remains the same. It's not about its value, but about the gesture. About „I thought of you” said in a way that comes from a tradition thousands of years old.
A small thread with a big story.
Marisch in the Netherlands
We invite you to welcome spring together at this year's 8 March Marquise and Gift Fair! 🌸
See you at Sallora in Amsterdam on 1 March 2026, between 11:00 - 16:30.
We are waiting for you, first and foremost, with handmade beads created by Romanian artisans from the Netherlands. In addition to these, you'll find stylish jewellery, Romanian sweets, honey products, clay or crocheted accessories, books and toys; a wide range of creations from which you can choose gifts for your loved ones.
We're looking forward to welcoming all, especially the little ones:
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13:30: Marquetry workshop with Nico
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14:00: Workshop on reading poems about Marty Christmas with Simona
The restaurant offers us not only cosy accommodation in a welcoming space, but also tasty food. Small Romanian snacks and also Lebanese sarmale will be prepared especially for the appetisers.
Event details:
🗓️ Date: 1 March 2026
🕛 Time: 11:00 - 16:30
📍 Location: Restaurant Sallora (Address: Osdorpplein 1010, Amsterdam)
Entry is free.
We look forward to celebrating the beginning of spring with you! 🌷
The fair is organised by Alina Allen, Corina Popa and Felicia Nistor.
Media partner: ROMPRO.
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