separator

Good Friday Epitaphios in Athens

Rate it!
(5 votes)

For all Christians Good Friday is the peak of the Passion Week. The day of absolute mourning and reverence for Christianity. The day that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his death at the Calvary, while the church bells ring in mourning from 12 noon.

This year, 2018, Good Friday in on the 6th of April.

In all Greek churches, no mater if it is in big cities, remote villages or whitewashed islands, the Passion of Christ is devotionally revived through different traditions.

epitafios

The ritual starts in the early morning when women decorate with flowers the Epitaph in order to receive the body of Jesus after the mass.

following the Epitaphios in Plaka

The day culminates with the Epitaph procession by candlelight through the streets, where priests, choirs, military bands and the faithful crowd chant religious hymns.

If you get the chance, do not hesitate to follow it your self!

epitafios in Athens city center
It is distinguished experience you will remember for long time! If your vacation home happened to be near Plaka, Athens’ oldest neighborhood, consider your self lucky!
More-often, several Epitaph processions meet at crossroads or little hidden squares, through the narrow picturesque alleys, offering a unique opportunity to feel the vibes and make memorable photos! Go for it!

The customs of the Holy Week are always an interesting cultural experience even for non-believers.

epitafios in front of Greek Parliament

The most formal ceremony is that of the Metropolis in which politicians and influential figures of Athenian society are involved. This particular epitaph is accompanied by a military band.

In most areas, the epitaph procession begins around 9pm, for one exemption. In the Monastery of Kaisariani, the epitaph procession takes place during the day. It comes out of the church around 02:00 pm. The procession takes place on Mount Hymettus, through the flowery nature and it is accompanied by the Christian Youth Brotherhood that chants. It is a unique experience for anyone who prefers to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
Find here more info and instructions of how to get there.

Read 2585 times
© 2024 Athensflat.gr. All Rights Reserved. Designed By ideas4sites