Of Popes & Poultry
The rooster had profound religious significance. In the Bible, Jesus foretold that Peter, one of his most devoted disciples, would betray him. “...Verily I say unto thee, that this night, before cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.” (Matthew 26:34). And so the rooster became an emblem of Peter’s betrayal.
Leaders of the early church revered the rooster both for its inspiration of hope and for its daily reminder that all people are capable of betraying the truest things in life. Circa 590 A.D.,Pope Gregory I declared that the rooster was “the most suitable emblem of Christianity.” In the 9th century, Pope Nicholas I even decreed that a rooster be placed at the top of every church. Coupled with the pre-existing use of weathervanes, a fascinating story for another day, the rooster weathervane was born.
Keep the Legend Alive!
At Valley Forge Cupolas, we carry a robust selection of rooster weathervanes so that you can join in on the centuries-old tradition and display a symbol of light and hope for all to see. So cock-a-doodle-do yourself a favor and pick up a rooster weathervane from Valley Forge Cupolas today!