Over the centuries, the wreath has been used symbolically and metaphorically in many cultures as they placed great importance on the December celebration of the Winter Solstice, and the shortest day of the year. For them, this was a time of death and rebirth, a celebration of the end of the ever-shortening days and the anticipation of the coming promise of spring. As part of many celebrations, evergreen wreaths were gathered as a sign of the approaching spring light. The Persians and the Greeks, saw wreaths as a symbol of importance and success and were worn as headbands. Wreaths were worn similarly as crowns of victory even hanging on doorways denoting the victories.