Easter eggs are on every table, in every kitchen and even in every school in the days leading up to the most important event on the Greek orthodox calendar.
Eggs are a symbol of fertility and rebirth for many traditions.
Traditionally they are painted red on Easter Thursday which is the day of the Last Supper. The colour red symbolises the blood of Jesus Christ and keeps all evil away.
Before industrial dyes were created seaweed or beetroot juice were used instead to a more natural effect on the island of Corfu.
In many parts of Greece the first egg was dedicated to the Virgin Mary and was kept in the home’s iconostas for a year after which it was buried in the fields in the hope of a good crop.
The cracking of the eggs happens on Easter Sunday and is a much loved moment particularly by younger members of the family.
Each person chooses their egg and goes on to meet another egg head on. Whichever egg cracks looses and the other goes on to the next person’s egg which is still intact.
Apart from being a rather joyous sensation in itself the cracking of the eggs symbolises the breaking open of the tomb from which Jesus resurrected thereafter.
When cracking the eggs one says «Χριστός Ανέστη» (Christos Anesti) which means Christ has risen.
Easter in Corfu is celebrated with intensity and pride. A week of world class musical performances and the unique throwing of the pots from Corfu Town’s tall buildings make Corfu island a much sought out holiday destination during this time of year.
S&O Villas would like to wish you a very Happy Easter with good health and joy for all your family.