What Is the Flower of Madrid?

By Michael Ferguson

Madrid, the capital city of Spain, is famous for its rich culture, art, and history. The city has a lot to offer to tourists, from museums and galleries to delicious food and wine. However, one of the things that make Madrid stand out is its beautiful flower, the Carnation.

What Is the Carnation?

The Carnation is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Caryophyllaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region but is widely cultivated throughout the world for its attractive flowers. The Carnation has been cultivated for over 2,000 years and has been used for various purposes such as medicinal, culinary, and ornamental.

The Significance of Carnations in Madrid

The Carnation holds great significance in Madrid’s culture and history. It is considered the official flower of Madrid and is commonly seen during festivals and celebrations throughout the city. The flower’s popularity can be attributed to its beauty and fragrance but also to its symbolic meaning.

In Spain, Carnations are associated with love and admiration. They are often given as gifts on special occasions such as weddings or Mother’s Day. In addition to this, red carnations are a symbol of socialism in Spain and were worn by supporters during the Spanish Civil War.

The Festival of San Isidro

One of the most important festivals in Madrid is the Festival of San Isidro. This festival celebrates the patron saint of Madrid, San Isidro Labrador. It takes place every year in May and features various cultural events such as bullfights, concerts, parades, and traditional dances.

During this festival, it’s common to see locals wearing traditional outfits with a small bouquet of carnations pinned on their lapels or dresses. The tradition dates back to when farmers would bring their crops to be blessed by San Isidro at his shrine. They would bring bouquets of flowers, including carnations, as an offering to the saint.

The Different Colors of Carnations

Carnations come in a variety of colors, each with its own meaning. Here are some of the most common colors and their symbolism:

  • Red: Love and admiration
  • Pink: Gratitude and appreciation
  • White: Pure love and good luck
  • Purple: Capriciousness
  • Yellow: Disappointment or rejection

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, the Carnation is not just a beautiful flower but also an important part of Madrid’s culture and history. Its significance can be seen in the various festivals and celebrations throughout the city. The next time you visit Madrid, make sure to look out for these beautiful flowers and appreciate their beauty and symbolism.