A Mythical Past and Royal History
The vibrant, ruby-red pomegranate, with its crown-like calyx, has captivated human civilization for millennia. Far more than just a fruit, the pomegranate (or Punica granatum) has woven its way into the very fabric of history, mythology, and religion.
• Ancient Greek Symbolism: In Greek mythology, the pomegranate is perhaps most famously linked to the story of Persephone. After being abducted by Hades, the god of the Underworld, she ate a few pomegranate seeds. This act forever bound her to the Underworld for part of the year, symbolizing the cycle of life, death, and the changing seasons. Due to its abundance of seeds, it was also widely celebrated as a symbol of fertility, life, and abundance.
• A Staple of Antiquity: The fruit’s journey stretches across ancient cultures, appearing in Egyptian tombs, biblical texts (as a motif on the robes of high priests), and in the art of the Roman Empire. Its hardy nature, ability to be stored for long periods, and delicious juice made it a highly valued commodity along ancient trade routes.
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