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Throughout the ages, pretzels have cemented their status as festive favorites, appearing in holiday traditions in German-speaking nations. They were hung from Christmas trees and hidden during Easter egg hunts, intertwining with joyful celebrations and communal gatherings.
The pretzel’s pivotal role in significant historical moments is notable, particularly during events like the 1529 Siege of Vienna. Folklore tells of monks alerting authorities to Ottoman forces based on sounds echoing from their pretzel baking. In return, these monks received an official coat of arms recognizing their bravery and contribution to the city's defense—a testament to the intertwining of culinary heritage and history.