Licitars: The Sweet Hearts of Croatia

Licitars: The Sweet Hearts of Croatia

Licitars: The Sweet Hearts of Croatia

Picture this: a bright red, heart-shaped biscuit covered in intricate decorations, wrapped up in cellophane, and practically glowing with charm. That’s a licitar—a colorful honey pastry that’s been a symbol of love and tradition in continental Croatia for centuries. More than just a treat, licitars hold a special place on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage, making them not just a delicious souvenir but a keepsake that will remind you of your Croatian vacation for years to come.

A Secret Recipe (Shh!)

Licitars have been around since the Middle Ages, and back then, making them was almost like an art form.

So, what’s the deal with these licitars? Well, By the 16th and 17th centuries, monasteries in Croatia were making licitars using elaborate wooden molds. The craft originally came from Germany and Austria, where they made similar gingerbread-like pastries called Lebzelter. But when licitars arrived in Croatia, they took on a life of their own.

Cities like Zagreb, Karlovac, Varaždin, and Samobor became hubs for licitar-making, with artisans guarding their recipes like treasure. Every licitar mold was unique, handmade from copper or metal sheets, which meant no two pastries looked exactly the same. And while they might seem like something you’d want to eat, don’t be fooled—these beauties are meant to last, sometimes for as long as 15 years!

Surprising Taste (Or Lack Thereof)

when licitars arrived in Croatia, they took on a life of their own

Okay, here’s where things get interesting. Licitars might look like a tasty snack, but they’re really more of a keepsake than a treat. Made from potato flour, sugar, and baking powder, they’re not exactly bursting with flavor. Some even get painted with tempera or varnish, so, trust me, tasting them is optional! But the point isn’t to eat them; it’s to keep the memory of your trip alive—long after you’ve returned home.

The Heart and the Mirror: A Sweet Love Tradition

While licitars come in all shapes—birds, horses, mushrooms, and even horseshoes—the heart-shaped ones are definitely the stars of the show. Traditionally, young men would give licitar hearts to the girls they liked. These hearts, with their red glaze and delicate icing decorations, often feature a tiny mirror in the center. The idea? When the girl holds up the heart, she sees her reflection—and the guy who’s standing behind her, giving her his heart (literally and symbolically). Sweet, right?

You’ll often find a little message on the heart too, like “I love you.” Sometimes they’re funny, sometimes romantic, but they always add a personal touch. And whether the heart is teeny-tiny or huge, it’s a token of affection that can’t be missed.

Perfect for Gifting, Wearing, or Hanging on the Tree

licitars also make perfect Christmas ornaments.

Beyond love tokens, licitars also make perfect Christmas ornaments. Their bright red color and fun shapes once made them super popular for decorating Christmas trees. While that’s not as common these days, you’ll still find them in some homes. And if you want something that lasts even longer, you can find jewelry inspired by licitars—gold and silver pendants, earrings, and bracelets designed in the shape of the famous heart.

Keeping the Tradition Alive

Though UNESCO recognized licitar-making in 2010, fewer artisans are carrying on the tradition today. So, when you’re strolling through Croatia’s charming markets, grabbing a licitar isn’t just about taking home a pretty souvenir—it’s about supporting local families who are keeping this incredible craft alive. Whether you keep it for yourself or gift it to someone special, a licitar is a little piece of Croatia that’ll stay with you, both in heart and memory.