For the 14th year in a row, the road outside the church of ‘Analipseos’ at Neos Kosmos, Athens, was transformed into what looked like a war zone, as locals celebrated the Resurrection of Christ at mass on Saturday with Molotov cocktails, fireworks and fire, filling the streets with flames.
It has become a tradition at Neos Kosmos neighbourhood for the streets to appear as though a war has started as soon as the priest says “Xristos Anesti.”
This year because of the country's existing curfew due to the pandemic, the tradition had to be brought forward.
According to the decision made by The Holy Synod, the governing body of the Church of Greece, the mass took place at 9pm instead of at midnight as it is traditionally held.
Local residents and people from many regions across Greece arrive at Neos Kosmos during the Easter period to witness this unique custom, as crowds gather at spots that are considered safe and distant enough to enjoy the spectacle.
Watch the video here:
[su_youtube url="https://youtu.be/7r7iOV4vAT4" width="700" title="Anastasi celebrated with Molotovs and Fire in Neos Kosmos, Athens"]Image by Eurokinissi
