What is eiresione?

Eiresione is a name given to a special olive branch decorated with woolen ribbons and fruits that was used in ancient Greece during the festival of Thargelia. This festival was celebrated in honor of the god Apollo and the goddess Artemis. The olive branch symbolized peace and prosperity, while the woolen ribbons and fruits represented abundance and fertility. During the festival, a young boy was chosen to carry the Eiresione through the streets while reciting a hymn that thanked the gods for their blessings. The Eiresione was then placed at the entrance to people's homes, where it was believed to bring good luck and prosperity for the coming year.