December 12 is Gingerbread House
December 12 is Gingerbread House Day, honoring the tradition of building gingerbread houses and structures, especially during Christmas. This practice dates back to the 19th century in Europe, influenced by the Grimm Brothers' tale "Hansel and Gretel." Gingerbread originated in Ancient Rome, but gained popularity in Europe in the late 11th century, with the introduction of ginger by the Crusaders. In 992, the Armenian monk Gregory of Nicopolis brought the recipe to Europe. The tradition took hold in the Middle Ages, with Nuremberg, Germany, being recognized as the "Gingerbread Capital of the World." Today, gingerbread houses, decorated with candy and icing, are a beloved Christmas tradition.
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