Licitar Heart Enamel Pin

Enamel pin in the shape of a Licitar Heart. 

Size: 0.75" x 0.75"

The word Licitar in Croatian derives from the old Croatian verb licitirati, which means "to bid" or "to announce". This etymology reflects the historical connection between the Licitar craft and medieval fairs and markets where these decorative pastries were sold.

In the Middle Ages, craftsmen and bakers who made Licitars were often itinerant vendors who showcased their goods at local fairs. These fairs involved public bidding and announcements, which is where the connection to "licitirati" comes into play. Over time, the term came to refer specifically to the brightly decorated honey dough items these craftsmen sold.

The association with love tokens and festive ornaments likely evolved later, as the Licitar gained popularity and symbolic meaning within Croatian culture. Today, the word is inseparably tied to this iconic craft, representing a blend of history, tradition, and artistry.