History and Traditions

In Corfu, 4 large religious processions (in Greek Λιτανεία — Litany) with the relics of Saint Spyridon are held annually, in memory of the salvation of the island thanks to the prayers of the saint, and one small one, inside the church, on December 25 (new style), on the day of memory of Saint Spyridon. The relics of Saint Spyridon are carried in an open silver and gold reliquary in a vertical position. The religious procession is accompanied by the Orthodox Metropolitan of Kerkyra, the Catholic Bishop of Corfu (as a sign of deep respect for the Saint). Many clergymen of the island, representatives of the mayor's office, army, navy, police, political parties, as well as numerous philharmonic orchestras of the island of Corfu, of which there are currently nineteen, take part in the solemn and magnificent religious processions. During the religious processions, bells ring in all the churches of the island. Solemn prayers are held at the entrance to the old Venetian fortress, as well as at the palace of Archangel Michael and St. George. During the religious processions, the roads and streets along which the procession passes are strewn with laurel leaves and rose petals. Red towels and carpets are hung on the balconies.