The Christmas Tree is traditionally known as a decorated tree, usually an evergreen conifer, such as a spruce, pine or fir. Customarily it was decorated with “roses made of coloured paper, apples, wafers, tinsel, [and] sweetmeats.” Moravian Christians began to illuminate their Christmas Trees with candles too, but this was eventually replaced with Christmas lights after the invention of electricity.

The tradition of an indoor Christmas tree originated from Germany, and the first recorded use was by German Lutherans in the 16th century, records stated that the tree was placed in the Cathedral of Strasbourg in 1539. This custom was introduced to Britain by our Schloss’ namesake, Prince Albert. In 1948 the Illustrated London News published a drawing of the Royal family celebrating around a tree covered with ornaments. The popularity of decorated Christmas trees then grew quickly, and with it came a market for tree ornaments in bright colours and reflective materials that would shimmer and glitter in the candlelight.

And so the Christmas Tree became a Victorian tradition and has been a beloved part of Britain’s Christmas celebrations ever since. Let’s raise a glass to Albert for introducing us. Ja!