Nardugan

Literally translated as Newborn Sun is a festival celebrated from the winter solstice on 21st of December until the first full moon. According to ancient Turkish belief, day and night fights and the day wins the fight on 21st of December. It heralds the longer days, warm season and awakening of the nature. On this festival, a white pine tree which symbolizes the life is decorated, presents put under and pieces of cloths tied to its branches for wishes. Winter solstice is celebrated in Sumeria, Rome and Ancient Greece which symbolizes the victory of day over night and hope for the future.

 

White pine tree symbolizes the tree of life. It is believed that the tree of life connected the earth and the sky, elixir of life flowed through its roots and their branches reached to sun and moon. It is depicted as motif on rugs.