Easter in Athens

It's known as Holy Saturday in Greece.

As midnight approaches, streams of people make their way through the streets of Athens and into the city's churches. Families, friends, individuals - all are dressed in their best. Each person carries a long, thin candle or unlit lantern. And for those without, there are the street sellers hovering nearby, doing a brisk trade.

The priests are already chanting the Easter liturgy, which is relaid via tannoy to the streets around.

Then, as Saturday becomes Sunday, the various congregations spill out onto the steps of their respective buildings, now holding candles aflame. The crowds turn to face the church doors from where the priests conclude the special service.

Then there's hugging and kissing as Easter greetings are exchanged. And now the streams are of flickering lights as the Easter flame is carried back to homes across the capital. Even passing cars glow from the carefully tended flames within.

Wishing you a very happy Easter from Greece!

Comments

[Tracy]

LOVE the sound & sight of Easter in Greece! :o) Happy holiday, Helen ((HUGS))

[Chesteraud]

You do experience some wonderful moments and I am so pleased you share them with us. Thanks so much.