April 25th - The Venetian tradition of St. Mark Rosebud

Dear Travelers,

Today, I want to tell you about one of the most romantic and cherished traditions of the lagoon city: the Rosebud of St. Mark. Every year on April 25th, in celebration of St. Mark’s Day, the patron saint of Venice, lovers give a red rosebud to the person they hold dearest.

The legend behind this tradition dates back to the Middle Ages and tells the heartbreaking love story of Maria, the daughter of a Venetian nobleman, and Tancredi, a young man of humble origins. To win Maria’s father’s approval, Tancredi left for war, proving his valour in battle. However, fate was cruel: Tancredi lost his life in combat, but before dying, he managed to entrust a comrade-in-arms with a rosebud stained with his blood, to be delivered to his beloved. Maria received the flower on April 25th, and the next day, she was found dead, holding the rosebud close to her heart.

Today, the act of giving a rosebud symbolizes eternal love and devotion. Walking through Venice on this special day, it is easy to spot men carrying a red rose to offer to their partner, mother, or daughter. It is a deeply poetic moment that connects the present with the past, renewing each year a tradition that makes Venice even more enchanting.

If you find yourself in Venice on this date, don’t forget to take part in this wonderful tradition, a small gesture can tell a great love story!

Looking forward to have you as our guest,

Margherita Pasotto