Long used as a universal source of inspiration for poets and playwrights to express discreet confessions of love, the rose holds deeply symbolic significance as an emblem of feminine creativity and generative power. Associated with Venus and Aphrodite in Greek mythology, roses were also used to denote confidentiality, where they were hung from the ceilings of meeting rooms and banquet halls from ancient Rome to the middle ages. It was understood that everyone underneath was sworn to secrecy, hence the Latin expression “sub rosa”, to mean “under the rose”, or “off the record”. The literal perfume essence has historically played a role in religious and spiritual rites, often held in secret.
It is in the spirit of silent expressions of devotional hospitality, that we invite you to a cookery/prep workshop ahead of Valentine’s day. Join us to taste and learn how to prepare Knafeh – a decadent middle eastern dessert that layers thinly shredded filo pastry with nut fillings or Mahalabi, a rose fragranced milk pudding. We will also show you how to prepare crystallised rose petals, that can be used as a decorative topping for cakes and puddings.
Suggested donation: £5
