Saffron (Crocus), symbolizes hope and rebirth, as most of its species bloom while the ground is still covered with snow. In the language of flowers, it is a symbol of happiness, fun, and joy.
According to ancient Greek legend, a young man named Krok competed with Hermes in discus throwing. By chance, the disc of Hermes landed in Croc, and he died. The inconsolable Hermes turned the drops of blood that spilled on the ground into a crocus flower, as beautiful as his friend was.
The most famous and beautiful crocus legend is associated with love. Emperor Claudius II was in ancient Rome. For the war, he needed loyal soldiers, not burdened with a family, and therefore he forbade weddings. At the same time, a doctor and a priest named Valentin lived there. He not only cured many diseases, but also, contrary to the imperial prohibition, secretly married couples in love.
Once a blind girl was brought to him. Valentin realized that the girl's ailment was practically incurable, but he gave his word that he would do everything possible to help her and prescribed treatment. Several weeks passed, but the girl's eyesight did not return.
One day, Roman soldiers broke into Valentine's prison, arrested and thrown in prison for violating the imperial ban on marriage.
Valentine knew that he would soon be executed. He asked the jailer for paper, pen, and ink and wrote a farewell letter to the girl he fell in love with, signing "From your Valentine." When she opened the note, she felt delicate petals between the leaves. It was yellow saffron. She took the flower in her hands, and its brilliant light illuminated her face. A miracle happened: her sight returned! On the same day, February 14, Valentine was executed. Now, this day is celebrated as Valentine's Day.
