The origins of Christmas trees can be traced back to the ancient Germans, who believed that evergreen trees held a special connection to the gods and goddesses of the forest. These trees were decorated with fruit and nuts as a way to welcome the gods and goddesses into their homes during the winter solstice. In the 16th century, the custom of decorating trees with candles and ornaments began to spread throughout Germany. By the 19th century, Christmas trees had become a popular holiday tradition in many countries around the world.