Easter on Aegina has the scent of spring, with distinctive customs that add color to the reverent days.
The first capital of modern Greece, the home of the famous pistachio and one of the Saronic Gulf islands closest to Athens, Aegina is the ideal destination for a spring escape. In just 35 minutes by hydrofoil and in one hour by ferry from Piraeus, youll reach the port of Aegina, which from afar looks like a painting.
It is one of Athenians most popular and beloved islands thanks to its proximity to the capital, as well as for the choices it offers in attractions, accommodation, food and activities. If you visit over Easter youll have plenty to see and do, no matter how many days you stay.
Easter in Aegina
Easter in Aegina takes on its own unique hue, with the revival of traditional customs that draw crowds of visitors to experience them up close. During Holy Week, the islands churches hold devout services with a springtime aroma.
On the evening of Good Friday, the Epitaphios processions take place in the town of Aegina. The towns three Epitaphioi, those of the Metropolitan Church, Panagitsa and Agios Nikolaos, meet on the seafront avenue, with people following, candles in hand, and the chants resounding through the streets.
On Holy Saturday the Resurrection is spectacular across the island. Churches in different parts of the island perform the Resurrection service, from the monasteries of Agios Nektarios, Agia Aikaterini, Agios Christoforos and Panagia Chrysoleontissa to the churches in town. In many tavernas youll also sit down to the customary magiritsa.
The most impressive and distinctive custom is revived on Easter Sunday in Perdika. After the traditional spits and the revelry that springs up all over the island, comes the burning of Judas. In the fishing village, the procession begins in the afternoon, passing by the Holy Church of Agios Sozon and along Perdikas beach and ends at the small platform, where the straw-stuffed effigy of Judas is given over to the fire.
On Easter Monday, in the courtyard of Timios Stavros at the entrance to Palaiochora, an old Aeginetan custom comes to life. The Dance of Lampri is a traditional celebration that starts a little before noon, with live music, dancing and egg-cracking.
What to do in Aegina
Aegina is beautiful in spring as blooming flowers and trees create an enchanting setting. There are many things to do on the island, as long as you have time and a desire for exploration.
At the port of Aegina the little white chapel of Ai- Nikolas will welcome you. Stroll the towns narrow lanes with neoclassical houses, jasmine-scented courtyards and shops selling fresh pistachios and local products. Adding color to the port are the unique «floating» greengrocers, with their fruit and vegetables. Drawing attention is the Venetian Tower of Markellos, built in 1802 and today occasionally hosting exhibitions and cultural events. Dont forget to take a turn through the fish market and sit for ouzo and seafood meze.
Its worth visiting the archaeological site of Kolona, the former religious and political center of the island. Today, among other remains, a single column survives, a remnant of the Doric Temple of Apollo that once dominated the hill.
One of the most important sights is the Temple of Aphaia, on the hilltop in a unique location. It is on the road to Agia Marina, among the pines and dates from 500 BC and is considered a pinnacle of Archaic architecture. It is said, moreover, that Iktinos and Kallikrates based themselves on this temple model in order to later design the Parthenon.
Admire one of the most important pilgrimage sites of Orthodoxy, the Monastery of Agios Nektarios, patron saint of Aegina. The womens monastery, is located near the village of Kondos, 6 km away from the town of Aegina.
Head towards the medieval settlement of Palaiochora opposite the Church of Agios Nektarios. Called by many the«island Mystras», it was built around 896 AD and served as the residents refuge from pirates.
One of the most beautiful spots on the island is the picturesque fishing village of Perdika. The setting with its narrow alleys and tavernas right by the sea will impress you. Sit for food, or for a drink at sunset.
If the weather is good, there are many beaches for your first swims. The beach of Klima (or Kleidi) stands out for its waters, Marathonas and Aeginitissa are a short distance from the port of Aegina, while Agia Marina has sand and shallow waters.
