wieniec

Wieniec is a circular ornament made from plant materials such as flowers, leaves, and grasses, though it may also be crafted from straw, ribbon, or metal. It is worn on the head as a garland or hung as a decorative ring for doors, graves, or holiday displays. The word denotes a broad class of wreaths and is closely related to the smaller crown-like form called wianek, typically worn on the head by individuals in certain contexts.

In Polish usage, wieniec has several ceremonial and decorative purposes. A wieniec pogrzebowy, or funeral wreath, is placed at gravesides or on coffins as a sign of remembrance. An Advent wreath (wieniec adwentowy) is a ring with candles used in homes during the Advent season. Wreaths are also common in festive and wedding settings, sometimes used to decorate churches and venues; flower crowns and garlands (wianki) are traditional elements in weddings and seasonal festivals.

In folk and cultural practice, flower crowns (wianki) play a role in midsummer celebrations, notably during Noc Świętojańska. Participants wear garlands and release water-bound wreaths as part of customs associated with the changing of the seasons.

Etymologically, the term wieniec derives from a Slavic root referring to a circular crown or ring and appears across related languages as a general term for wreaths. In broader history, wreaths have served as symbols of honor, victory, and remembrance, with parallels such as the laurel wreath in ancient Rome.