![]() The hymns or ‘stichera’ sung on this day recall the Genesis story of Joseph, the son of Jacob, whose innocence and suffering at the hand of his fellows and the false accusation that were hurled at him, foreshadow the Passion of Christ. ![]() Holy Monday, the first day of Greek Easter, commemorates the withering of the fruitless fig tree from the Book of Matthew this is thought to symbolise the divine judgement that will befall those who do not bear the “fruits” of repentance. Here at Real Lesvos, we hope to give you an idea of the religious and cultural traditions of Greek Easter. The rest of the world’s Eastern Orthodox, Coptic and other communities which follow the Byzantine Rite, all have similar traditions. Greek people will also attend church more often during this period, however the most important Church services will take place in the week running up to Easter Sunday some even go to church twice a day! This week is called ‘Megali Evdomada’, the ‘Holy Week’. They believe that this will cleanse the body and spirit in preparation for the acceptance of the Resurrection. ![]() This fast means that Greeks cannot eat any meat, fish, dairy products, oil or wine. Greek Easter, or ‘Pascha’, begins with the Great Lent known as ‘Sarakosti’ when people fast for 40 days before they break their fast on Easter Sunday. If you have any Greek friends, you’ve probably already got an idea about the sheer scale of the celebrations! If not, Real Lesvos is here to take you step-by-step through some of the main events of Greek Easter that are unknown to most people who visit Greece. Greek Orthodox Christians commemorate the Biblical event of Jesus being crucified for the sins of humanity. Are you new to Greece and thinking about booking a springtime trip to one of the world’s most popular holiday destinations? Worry not, get to know Greece through experiencing the country’s biggest celebration! 90% of the population of Greece is Greek Orthodox while the rest of the population is Muslim, Catholic, Jewish and of other minority faiths. ![]()
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