If you look at the weather forecast this week, you have probably already heard of them: the ice saints! May is actually known for its warm spring weather. Nevertheless, it often gets really cold again in mid-May. According to old beliefs the five icy saints are responsible for this.

The term comes from old weather rules and stands for four men and one woman. One day of this week is dedicated to each of them:

11 May - Mamertus

12 May - Pancras

13 May - Servatius

14 May - Boniface

15 May - Sophia

These people were bishops or martyrs from the 4th and 5th century. For them as for many other saints in the Catholic faith there are days of remembrance every year. That is why every day has its own name.

In the week from 11th to 15th of May, cold polar air often passes Europe. This is why it gets so cold again in spring. So this is an important time for people who have a garden. During this time they often worry that fruit blossoms or vineyards will freeze and they will have a bad harvest. There are many sayings that have to do with the ice saints. One is for example:

„Never plant before cold Sophia.“

So when this time is over you can really get going in the garden or on the balcony. They say that there will be no more frost after that.