During my first week in Zagreb, I was intrigued by the rows and rows of bright red hearts that were stocked in many of the shop windows. I assumed it was decoration for the upcoming Valentine’s Day celebrations, but the hearts stayed on way past the 14^th.

After a little research, I learnt that these hearts were not merely a marketing ploy, but a treasured local tradition. Known as Licitarsko Srce, these bright hearts are in fact gingerbread hearts made from honey dough and decorated with trims and floral designs. While they are traditionally an edible item, they are more often used as decorative gifts and have become a popular souvenir.

Gingerbread hearts are usually exchanged between loved ones on special occasions, including Christmas. They symbolize the giver’s love and wishes of luck and good health. These shiny red hearts are (obviously) a big draw every Valentine’s Day, where they ingrain themselves in a lover’s ritual inspired by a famous ballet composition by Croatian composer Kresimir Baranovic titled ‘Licitarski Srce,’ or ‘Gingerbread Hearts.’

This tradition of gingerbread hearts dates back to the sixteenth century when decorative cakes were created from elaborate wooden moulds in monasteries across Europe. This tradition travelled to Croatia, where it survives till date.

Apart from the traditional red hearts, Licitars are also available in ‘fun’ avatars like little red dolls, decorative birds and horses, etc. They come in various sizes and are easy to carry, making for excellent reminders of the sunny warmth of Croatia and all her rich traditions.

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