Colors of Corfu - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Many experienced travelers believe that only on the islands one can feel the unique spirit of Greece. A very measured life reigns here, and unique national traditions can be seen in literally everything. Authentic architecture, unique culinary traditions, beautiful religious holidays and a measured lifestyle - the atmosphere on Corfu Island is so harmonious that after a couple of hours every tourist feels like a typical local resident.

Like any other Greek island, Corfu has its own unique features. It is often called the "most Italian" island of Greece, and indeed, Italy has had a great influence on the local culture's formation. This peculiarity is felt literally in everything, from the variety of Italian restaurants to the leisurely nature of people living here. The culture of Corfu is considered one of the most multinational in Europe. Today locals celebrate a lot of interesting holidays typical not only for Greeks but for Italians, French and British.

Religious holidays are considered the most beautiful and interesting. A lot of interesting rituals can be observed in the days of Easter. Locals have their own name for the widely spread Christian holiday - “Lambri of Lambria”, which can be translated as “bright”. The island has preserved many beautiful old churches and Christian monasteries, which during holidays are visited by pilgrims from around the world. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

During the period of Easter celebration in Corfu, they always hold church music concerts, which are open to all comers. Easter celebrations on the island last at least a week when solemn processions are held in all cities and villages of Corfu. On holidays, it is customary to put on public display religious relics that are solemnly carried through the main streets. During the days of the Easter festival, classical music concerts, interesting gastronomic festivals and fairs are organized throughout the island.

The religious holiday has its own unique gastronomic symbols: “Fogatsa” sweet bread, caramelized almonds "Mandola", and sweet “Colombina” cake. A lot of interesting entertainment awaits visitors to the island on these festive days. They will be able to listen to church music, watch performances of preachers and solemn processions, and, of course, enjoy the best festive treats that are sold directly on the streets.

On the last Saturday before Easter, locals perform a very interesting ritual. Large earthenware jars are thrown out windows and balconies, crashing down with the noise. Some people even fill them with water. On this day, one should be especially careful when walking around the city streets, they become relatively safe after 5:00 pm.

Besides beautiful religious holidays, other interesting festivals are regularly celebrated on the island. Every year in June, the International Folklore Festival is attended by artists from all over the world. It is noteworthy that both children and adult folk groups join the celebration. The festival program is very diverse, it includes performances of musical bands and soloists, choreographic groups, and individual dancers. The entrance to most of the folk shows is absolutely free. The beautiful festival of national cultures is usually held at the end of June.

Iconic historical holidays are also celebrated on the island. In the first days of August, fans of event tourism will be interested in visiting the city of Paleokastritsa. A beautiful historical festival called Barcarola is held here. It is dedicated to the event that occurred on the island on August 11, 1716. On that day, a fleet of Turkish conquerors once again approached the shores of Corfu, but they never launched an attack because of a strong thunderstorm. According to legend, in the midst of a thunderstorm, a huge figure of a monk holding a cross in one hand and a torch in the other appeared at the shores of the island.

The Turkish conquerors were so scared of this phenomenon that hurried to leave the coastal waters and never again tried to attack Corfu. Even now locals believe in this fantastic legend. On the first Sunday of August, a beautiful holiday is celebrated here in honor of the patron saint, St. Spyridon. People believe that it was his image that appeared to the Turkish conquerors. The patron saint is considered the savior of the island. Beautiful solemn processions are held in the city the whole day. The celebration ends with a grand pyrotechnic show.