The Assumption of the Virgin Mary, known in Greece as ‘Koímisis tis Theotókou’ (Κοίμηση της Θεοτόκου), is one of the country's most important religious holidays and is celebrated with great devotion, especially on Crete. This day honours the Assumption of the Virgin Mary into heaven and is the second most important holiday in the Orthodox Church after Easter.
For many Greeks, 15 August is not only a church feast day, but also an occasion for family gatherings, village festivals and traditional celebrations that often last until the early hours of the morning. On Crete, where faith and tradition are deeply rooted, the Assumption of the Virgin Mary has a very special significance and attracts many believers and visitors every year.
Religious significance and preparation
In the Greek Orthodox Church, the Assumption of Mary is regarded as the ‘Dormition of the Mother of God’, which is why the holiday is often celebrated with processions and nightly prayers. Believers prepare intensively for this day by observing a two-week period of fasting, which begins on 1 August. During this time, many abstain from meat, dairy products and oil in order to spiritually cleanse themselves.
The night before 15 August is particularly significant: many believers gather in churches and monasteries for long services, accompanied by prayers and singing. People often spend the whole night in church or outdoors to experience the sunrise on the feast day.
Important pilgrimage sites and celebrations on Crete
Crete is rich in churches and monasteries dedicated to Mary and many of them are the destination of large pilgrimages on 15 August. Some of the most important places are:
1. the monastery of Panagia Kalyviani (near Mires, southern Crete)
This convent is one of the most famous Marian shrines on Crete. Thousands of pilgrims visit it on 15 August to receive blessings and take part in the solemn masses.
2nd Monastery of Panagia Chrissoskalitissa (western Crete, near Elafonissi)
Situated high up on a cliff, this monastery is considered a place of spiritual power. Legend has it that one of the monastery's 98 steps is made of pure gold - but only the pure of heart can see it.
3rd Church of Panagia Faneromeni (East Crete, near Gournia)
This church is known for its impressive festivities. Many pilgrims spend the night in the church or nearby to attend the first prayers early in the morning.
4th Church of Panagia Myrtidiotissa (near Ierapetra)
Nestled in a beautiful landscape, this church is an important place of pilgrimage for believers praying for health and protection.
In addition to the official church services, the celebrations at these places are often combined with folk festivals featuring traditional Cretan music, dances and culinary specialities.
Panigiria - the traditional village festivals
After the church ceremonies, 15 August turns into a lively festival that lasts late into the night. Almost every village on Crete celebrates a Panigiri - a traditional festival with live music, dancing and good food.
The villages are particularly famous for their panigiria:
Anogia (Central Crete) - one of the most famous festivals with traditional music and dancing.
Vamos (western Crete) - an authentic festival where local food and wine take centre stage.
Archanes (near Heraklion) - a mixture of religious celebration and Cretan joie de vivre.
At a panigiri, large, long tables are set up in the village squares where locals and visitors sit down together. Cretan specialities are served, including:
Antikristo - lamb grilled over an open fire.
Dakos - Dried bread with tomatoes, olive oil and feta.
Kalitsounia - Sweet or savoury dumplings with cheese or honey.
Cretan wine and raki - Typical drinks that no celebration should be without.
Musicians play the traditional Cretan lyre and the people dance until the early hours - an atmosphere that visitors will not soon forget.
Assumption Day as the summer highlight
As 15 August is a public holiday in Greece, many Greeks use this time for a short summer holiday. Beaches, tavernas and hotels are often busy during this time. On Crete in particular, the mixture of religious celebrations and summer holiday atmosphere is unique.
For many Greeks, Ascension Day also marks the end of the high summer period. After this day, preparations for autumn slowly begin, even if the warm weather continues for a long time.
A unique experience on Crete
Whether you want to experience the spiritual side of the festival or simply enjoy the exuberant atmosphere of a Panigiri, the Assumption of Mary on Crete is an unforgettable experience. The combination of deep-rooted faith, centuries-old traditions and Cretan hospitality makes this day one of the special highlights of the year.
Anyone visiting Crete on 15 August should not miss the opportunity to take part in the celebrations, visit one of the impressive churches or monasteries and experience the authentic Cretan way of life.