April 30, 2016

The Magnificent Illumination of Santorini for Great Friday (photos + videos)


One of the most beautiful places to be in all of Greece for Holy and Great Friday evening for the funeral procession with the Epitaphios is the village of Pyrgos on the island of Santorini. This event attracts visitors from all over the world. The old castle and the entire village is lit up with canisters which create a dramatic and highly devout and solemn experience for the visitor.

The entire village is ablaze as the procession starts to meander through the tiny streets and laneways. Thousands of faithful line the narrow streets holding candles and slowly follow behind the procession around the village. It is at this point when millions of aluminum cans, stuffed with flammable materials, placed on the roofs and everywhere around the village and the Venetian castle are lighting up, creating an evocative and thrilling picture and atmosphere.