Laurel wreath facts for kids
A laurel wreath is a round decoration made from the branches and leaves of the bay laurel tree. This tree is an evergreen, meaning it stays green all year. Its leaves have a nice, fresh smell.
People traditionally wear the wreath on their head. In Greek mythology, the god Apollo often wears a laurel wreath. This is because of the story of Apollo and Daphne. In Ancient Greece, people gave laurel wreaths to special winners. This included champions in poetry contests or sports events, like the Ancient Olympic Games.
The laurel wreath was also important in Ancient Rome. Roman Emperors are often shown wearing them. During the Summer Olympics in 2004, held in Athens, Greece gave laurel wreaths to the winners. The saying "resting on one's laurels" comes from this tradition. It means someone is relaxing because they did something great in the past.
In some countries, the laurel wreath is a symbol for a master's degree. This is a special university degree. Young graduates sometimes receive a wreath at their graduation ceremony. The word "Laureate" in 'poet laureate' also comes from the laurel wreath. A poet laureate is a poet honored for their work.
Today, wreaths are mostly used for decoration. They are not always used for ceremonies anymore. Sometimes, wreaths are made with flowers like roses to make them look even prettier.
Images for kids
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A laurel wreath decorating a memorial at the Folketing, the national parliament of Denmark.
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An actress performing a play. She wears a laurel wreath and stands in front of a statue from the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (The British Museum, London).
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Ovid with a laurel wreath, common for poets.
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A piece of the Alexander Garden Grille.
See also
In Spanish: Corona triunfal para niños
