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| Christmas Carnivals » St. Patrick |
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St. Patrick Symbols |
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Shamrock Leaves, The most famous symbol, not only of St. Patrick's Day but of Ireland as well, is the shamrock leaf. This leaf is also known as the 'seamrog' or the summer plant it is shaped like a three - leafed clover. Carved symbols of Shamrock leaf have been found on medieval Irish tombs and also on old copper coins. According to an ancient Irish belief, this leaf was said to possess magical properties.
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The Harp
The harp is an Irish symbol, found in ancient Irish carvings, Irish coins, flags and is also used for traditional decorations on St. Patrick's Day .
Green Colour
Green is considered to be the colour of Ireland and people all over the world try to wear something green on this special day. The colour green signifies the onset of the spring season and is also the colour of Shamrock leaf.
Shillelagh
Shillelagh was the name of an oak - forest in County Wicklow, hence a club made from an Oak was often called a 'Shillelagh'. These clubs served the purpose of walking sticks and were also used for sport or even as weapons for fighting. Today little children carry plastic Shillelaghs on this occasion.
Leprechaun
A little gnome-like man with magical powers is the Irish counterpart of the conventional fairy. He is supposed to have a hidden pot of gold.
Blarney Stone
There is custom to kiss the Blarney Stone on this day. This stone is set on the wall of the Blarney Castle Tower in a village named Blarney in Ireland. Any one who kisses the Blarney Stone is supposed to receive the gift of 'persuasive eloquence' (the ability to speak convincingly). It is believed that St. Patrick had a winning personality that enabled him to fulfil his mission of converting almost the whole of Ireland into Christianity.
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