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MARI LWYD WELSH CUSTOM
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MARI LWYD WELSH CUSTOM
The Mari Lwyd party, a Welsh Christmas custom, the horse representing the Celtic goddess Rhiannon, patron of horses and the end of the old year/beginning of the new one Date: 1960s
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Media ID 20158265
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Beginning Celtic Custom Goddess Mari Patron Representing Year
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Mari Lwyd
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or "Grey Mare" is a unique and intriguing Welsh Christmas custom that dates back to the Middle Ages. This photograph, taken in the 1960s, captures the essence of this ancient tradition as it unfolds in a small Welsh village. At the heart of the Mari Lwyd celebration is a horse's skull, often adorned with ribbons, bells, and other decorations. This macabre yet symbolic representation of the Celtic goddess Rhiannon, the patron of horses, marks the end of the old year and the beginning of the new one. The Mari Lwyd party is a lively and spirited event, where participants dress up in colorful costumes and parade through the streets, singing and chanting to the horse's skull. The custom involves knocking on doors and asking the homeowners to let the Mari Lwyd in, promising good fortune and prosperity in the coming year. In exchange, the homeowners offer food and drink, which are shared among the revelers. The horse's skull is carried from house to house, accompanied by a group of singers who perform a traditional song, often involving wordplay and riddles. The horse's skull is then placed on a doorstep, and the singers ask the homeowner to guess the identity of the horse. Once the homeowner guesses correctly, they are allowed to join the procession and continue the festivities. This photograph offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Wales and the enduring power of tradition. The Mari Lwyd custom, with its roots in Celtic mythology and ancient rituals, remains an integral part of the Welsh Christmas celebrations and a testament to the resilience and creativity of the human spirit.
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