March 25: A double celebration of Greek Independence Day and the Annunciation

·

March 25 has a special meaning to Greeks around the world as it is a double celebration of the Annunciation of the Theotokos (Virgin Mary) and Greek Independence Day. To mark the occasion, we take a look back at the history of this significant day.

The Annunciation of the Theotokos (Ευαγγελισμός της Θεοτόκου):

On March 25 every year, the religious event of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary is celebrated. The day celebrates the moment when the Archangel Gabriel appeared to the Panagia and told her she would be the mother of Jesus, the Son of God.

On this day, anyone with the name Evan or Evangelia celebrate their name day.

The Annunciation of the Theotokos.

Greek Independence Day (Η Μέρα της Ανεξαρτησίας):

The Empire of Byzantium ended in 1453 when its capital, Constantinople (now called Istanbul), fell to the Ottomans. Since then, Greece was under Turkish Muslim rule and for the next 400 years, deprived of their human rights.

READ MORE: ‘Fight for Faith and Country’: The revolutionary declaration of Alexandros Ypsilantis.

Over the years, many attempts were made by the Greeks to gain their freedom, but they were unsuccessful. From the 18th century, Greeks living or studying abroad got more organised and dreamt of the liberation of the Greek people and the creation of the New Hellenic State.

Finally, after 400 years under Turkish rule, on March 25, 1821, Bishop Paleon Patron Germanos raised the flag of the Greek Revolution at the Monastery of Agia Lavra.

Bishop Paleon Patron Germanos raised the flag of the Greek Revolution at the Monastery of Agia Lavra.

From that moment on until 1830, Greeks all over Greece started to fight for their freedom and were able to finally get rid of their conqueror.

How do Greeks celebrate March 25 today?

March 25 is an official public holiday in Greece and Cyprus.

In most Greek cities, it usually includes parades and other festive events. The main events are the military parade in Athens in the morning of March 25th, as well as many school parades all over the country.

It is also a tradition to gather with family and friends and eat fish. Since this day is also a religious celebration, and it always falls in the “fasting period” before the Easter celebration, most people will avoid eating meat. That’s why the traditional menu for March 25 is the so-called “bakaliaros skordalia.” It is fried cod accompanied by a strong garlic sauce. Delicious!

READ MORE: Bakaliaros Skordalia: The traditional dish of Greek Independence Day.

Advertisement

Share:

KEEP UP TO DATE WITH TGH

By subscribing you accept our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Advertisement

Latest News

Athens Airport to undergo major expansion inspired by architectural heritage

Athens International Airport is set to double its passenger capacity by 2032 through a large-scale expansion and redesign.

‘Our People Their Stories’ revives the era when Hellenism took root in Australia

"Our People Their Stories – Οι Άνθρωποί μας, οι Ιστορίες τους" is the name of the pioneering project undertaken by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese...

Tributes flow for former Liberal MP for Kooyong, Petro Georgiou

Petro Georgiou, a former Liberal MP for Kooyong and a respected advocate for human rights, has died peacefully at the age of 77.

Meet the new generation of Greek youth shaping the future of Hellenism in Canberra

The GOCCC Emerging Leaders (GEL) Committee 2025 is a hand-selected youth subcommittee made up of dedicated young individuals.

Hellenic Kids returns this month with three days of culture and fun

This April, children from Kindy to Year 6 are invited to dive into the Hellenic Kids Activities Program, running from 15 April to 17 April.

You May Also Like

Greek city of Elefsina named European Capital of Culture for 2023

The city of Elefsina, in the West Attica region of Greece, has been named one of the European Capitals of Culture for 2023. 

Theresa Xanthopoulos recognised at 2024 SA Nursing and Midwifery Excellence Awards

Nurses and midwives across South Australia have been celebrated for the significant contribution the professions make to the health system.

Jim Grivokostopoulos announced as Liberal candidate for Oakleigh ahead of Victoria’s state elections

Jim Grivokostopoulos has been endorsed as the Liberal candidate for Oakleigh ahead of Victoria's state elections in November.