Easter in Syros

Syros is an island with both Orthodox and Catholic believers and one of the few places worldwide where the two Christian communities celebrate Easter at the same time. Holy Friday is a very special day for Syros with the procession of the Epitaphs. That day, the epitaph of every Catholic and Orthodox Church in Ermoupolis, meet at Miaouli Square, in front of the Town Hall. The epitaph of the Catholic church of Evengelistria and the epitaphs of the Orthodox churches of Agios Nikolaos, Metamorphosis and Kimisis tis Theotokou (Assumption of Virgin Mary) roam the streets of the town and end up in the central square of Ermoupolis where the choir of Agios Nikolaos chants the Holy Friday hymns, followed by religious hymns by the Philharmonic Orchestra. During the procession, the catholics carry cloaks, sponges and dice hanging from poles, which symbolise the Passion of Christ. Local people and visitors sit on the steps the Town Hall holding lighted candles and watch this spectacle. Easter in Syros is an unforgettable experience and a good reminder that it is possible different religious communities to peacefully, and supportively co-exist.