Easter in Nafplio: Holy Week Customs and Events
Spring may be Nafplio's best season, and Easter showcases it even more — blooming bougainvillea, citrus scents, and a town that lives its traditions intensely.
Lazarus Saturday: The Lazarakia
The festive period begins with one of the most touching local customs: "Lazarakia." Children, traditionally dressed, sing carols through the old town's alleys, handing out small buns they've baked themselves.
Holy Week: Lights and Digital Art
Courtesy of the Municipality, the town's churches are illuminated in special colours throughout Holy Week. From Holy Thursday to Holy Saturday, digital artworks with religious themes related to the Passion are projected in Syntagma Square.
Good Friday: The Meeting of the Epitaphioi
The week's high point: early in the evening on Good Friday, the Epitaphios processions from the old town's parishes — mainly Panagia and Saint George — process through the picturesque alleys, especially Psaromachalas, meeting in Syntagma Square. The Municipal Choir accompanies Panagia's Epitaphios, while the Municipal Philharmonic accompanies Saint George's with funeral marches. Thousands of faithful, holding candles, sing the Lamentations.
Holy Saturday and Resurrection
After the Resurrection, fireworks light up the sky. At the Catholic Church (Fragoklisia), Sunday morning features a Resurrection liturgy with an icon procession in the courtyard.
Practical Tip: Where to Eat on Easter Sunday
A rarely mentioned useful tip: the Municipality's tourism department organises an annual list of restaurants — in Nafplio and surrounding villages — that stay open for the Resurrection dinner and Easter Sunday lunch.
Easter Bazaars
From Lazarus Saturday, Easter bazaars are set up in Three Admirals Square and Syntagma Square, with handmade creations, candles, and Easter gifts.
See Also
FAQ
What happens in Nafplio on Good Friday?
The Epitaphios processions from Panagia and Saint George meet in Syntagma Square in a large procession.
What is "Lazarakia"?
A local Lazarus Saturday custom where children sing carols in the alleys, handing out baked buns.
Is it hard to find an open restaurant on Easter Sunday in Nafplio?
The Municipality organises an annual list of open restaurants in town and surrounding villages.
