The symbolism of the Cimaruta, which means "sprig of rue", can be traced back to the pre-Roman Etruscan period. Originally a charm to protect against enchantments, over time it has become a symbol of the old religion in Italy. The enlargement of a single vervain blossom is associated with the fairy race. The rooster dispels darkness and heralds the dawn. The knife, Diana's dart, represents enlightenment as a ray of moonlight. The serpent represents the goddess Prosperpina, the moon Diana herself and the key is symbolic of Hecate.