Division 5.1 Specificity of the geographical area

The name ‘rogal świętomarciński’ derives from the tradition of baking and consuming croissants with a characteristic filling on Saint Martin’s Day (11 November). This custom originates in Poznań and the surrounding area.

Saint Martin’s Day celebrations date from the 16th century and are linked to the end of the agricultural year. The main street in Poznań is named after Saint Martin, and festivities in his honour take place each year and form part of the heritage of the city’s entire community.

The reputation of ‘rogal świętomarciński’ has been established by the confectioners and bakers of Poznań, the capital of Wielkopolska, and the surrounding area. Bakers have been offering this product to the city’s inhabitants on Saint Martin’s Day for 150 years. The tradition has spread to neighbouring districts in Wielkopolskie Province.

Over time the ‘rogal świętomarciński’ has become available throughout the year, but its production and consumption continue to be concentrated around Saint Martin’s Day.