Easter is one of the most important holidays in Cyprus and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and reverence throughout the island. It is a time when family and friends come together to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, marking the end of the 40-day period of Lent.
One of the most important traditions during Easter is the preparation of traditional delicacies, such as flaounes (a type of cheese-filled pastry), koulourakia (traditional Easter biscuits), and tsoureki (a sweet bread). These treats are usually made a few days before Easter Sunday and are shared among family and friends.
The Holy Week, which begins on Palm Sunday, is the most significant period of Easter. During this week, churches across the country hold various religious services, including the reading of the Gospel, the washing of feet, and the decoration of the Epitaphio (a wooden structure representing the tomb of Christ).
On Good Friday, which marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, many people attend the evening church service and participate in the procession of the Epitaphio. The procession takes place around the streets of the local area and is accompanied by the mournful sounds of the church choir.
Easter Sunday is the most joyous day of the holiday, with many people attending the Resurrection service in the early hours of the morning. The service is followed by a traditional breakfast consisting of red-dyed eggs, flaounes, and other treats.
After breakfast, many families celebrate by having a picnic or barbeque outdoors, enjoying the warmer weather and spending time with loved ones. Easter Monday is a public holiday, and many people take the opportunity to visit friends and relatives, or to attend other social events.
In conclusion, Easter is a significant holiday in Cyprus, celebrated with great respect and tradition. It is a time for families and friends to come together, enjoy traditional delicacies, attend religious services, and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
If you are celebrating Easter this weekend, we wish you and your loved ones a wonderful and blessed time.