Traditional Easter Games in Cyprus

Traditional Easter Games in Cyprus

(Πασχαλινά παραδοσιακά παιχνίδια)

Element, inscribed on the National ICH Registry of Cyprus

Easter is an important feast of the Greek Orthodox Church that is celebrated with piety and joy in every corner of Cyprus. During Easter, which coincides with the arrival of spring, various events are organised and traditional customs are followed in towns and villages. Among the traditions that continue to this day, the traditional Easter games enhance this festive period thanks to their unique beauty. Among the most common surviving games are the “ditjimin” (weightlifting game), the “ziziros” (cicada), the “appiisen o kamilos” (the camel jump), the “ligrin” (hit the stick), the “sakkoulodromies” (sack race), the “skatoulika”, the “shini” (rope pulling), and the “faratzis”.

Learn more in our new publication “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Cyprus”