Legend of Saint Barbara
Saint Barbara was the daughter of a pagan king in the 3rd century.
However, Barbara herself believed in Jesus Christ and embraced Christianity.
Her father was against it and had her locked up in a tower, but she refused to give up her faith. Eventually she was tortured and died at the hands of her father.
Barbara's feast day in the Czech calendar is 4 December.
On this day, cherry or apple branches are traditionally picked and placed in a vase, and if they blossom by Christmas, it is said to bring good luck for the coming year.
The symbolism of the blossoms in the story of St Barbara is one of hope and faith, which should not let us down in the dark winter months.
The devil and St Nicholas
The tradition of St Nicholas is based on the figure of Bishop Nicholas of Myra, who was known for his mercy and generosity.
He is also considered the patron saint of children.
On 5 December, the figure of St Nicholas comes to the children, bringing them gifts for good behaviour.
Along with St Nicholas come the figures of the Devil and the Angel.
The devil is a warning to the children against bad behaviour.
On this night you can see the figures of St Nicholas, the Devil and the Angel walking the streets with gifts for the children.
The three kings
Everyone knows the story of the three kings who travelled together to worship the newborn Jesus.
In the Czech Republic, the feast of the Three Kings is celebrated on 6 January.
People, often children, go to houses wearing masks of the Three Wise Men and write the letters K+M+B and the year in chalk on the door
to bring blessings to the family in the coming year.
