The awe-inspiring decorations of the Epitaphios in Ouranoupolis and the gracious embellishments in the local church make the Easter unique.
The awe-inspiring decorations of the Epitaphios in Ouranoupolis and the gracious embellishments in the local church make the Easter holidays unique.
The Epitaphios in Ouranoupolis: Easter in Halkidiki
As the centerpiece of the Greek Easter, the Epitaphios is decorated with ultimate devoutness in Ouranoupolis. What makes the Easter holiday even more intriguing in this part of Halkidiki is that Ouranoupolis is the last frontier before the holy region of Mount Athos.
Easter in Halkidiki is full of rituals, traditions, and customs. It’s a way to witness the blooming nature and fuel the spirit while relaxing in the beautiful rooms of the local hotels. But spending your Easter holidays in Ouranoupolis will bring your mystic experience to a different level.
The Epitaphios in Ouranoupolis is one of a kind
A symbol of the holy grave, the Epitaphios is decorated with flowers in all parts of Greece. What makes it so special in Ouranoupolis is the attention given to the decorations by the local women.
The Epitaphios in Ouranoupolis is distinguished by the intricate designs formed by thousands of tiny flowers, beads, and pearls. Each year, the motif is different while all patterns reflect treasures found in Mount Athos and the designs of the local rugs.
The preparations start after the Christmas holidays while the Epitaphios takes place in the church early in the morning on Good Friday and is carried in the streets of Ouranoupolis in the dusk.
The church in Ouranoupolis creates the perfect Easter environment
The Easter candles that light up on Saturday night and when the holy light travels from the hands of the priest to the congregation combined with the vistas in this extraordinary location create the perfect scenery for the biggest holiday of the Greek Orthodox Church.
And it’s not just the outdoor environment, which makes Easter special in Ouranoupolis, but also the amazing architecture and decorations of the local church.
Built in 1939, the church boasts of its icons and tapestries while some elements are donated by monasteries from Mount Athos and some murals are rather recent although they depict the Byzantine tradition.
Easter in Halkidiki is exciting, but Easter in Ouranoupolis is an experience you can’t miss if you decide to visit Greece this time of the year.
Photo Credits : www.halkidikifocus.gr
