August 14, 2021

The Snakes of the Panagia Have Made Their Appearance in Kefallonia (2021)

Photo from 8/7/21 in Agrinia
 
Just as every year, from the feast of the Transfiguration of Christ till the feast of the Dormition of the Theotokos, or from August 6th to the 15th, snakes appear in a wondrous manner in two villages of Kefallonia with chapels dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos, in Markopoulo and Arginia, that appear to worship among the pilgrims who flock to these chapels, and venerate of their own accord the icon of the Panagia. Many noted miracles are associated with these snakes.

For more information: Panagia Fidousa (Snakes of the Panagia) Resource Page

It was reported by the Greek press, that three snakes of the Panagia made their appearance this year on August 12th in Markopoulo, after an unusual delay; last year there was also an unusual delay with their appearance on August 8th with two snakes in Markopoulo, while the year prior to that only one appeared. In Agrinia one snake appeared on August 6th. Last year it was three snakes that appeared on August 8th, and the year before that two snakes appeared in Agrinia on August 6th. At their appearance, the bells rang joyfully to announce their arrival. It is not reported if more snakes have made their appearance in the past few days. However, it is good news that one additional snake since last year has appeared this year in Markopoulo.