Colors of Lesvos - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Many foreigners tend to associate the island of Lesbos with the symbolism of same-sex love. Such analogies were based on the ancient Greek myths, according to which, in ancient times, only women who denied any contact with men lived on the island. Such mythological tales are now embodied in modern culture. The island is a popular vacation destination among LGBT people.

It is important to note that locals themselves have a negative attitude to such symbols and have repeatedly appealed to the court with a request to rename their native island and relieve them of such associations. Despite the fact that such appeals were unsuccessful, local residents decided to rename the island on their own. Today, most of them use the unofficial name Mytilini eponymous with the capital. For modern ethics and culture considerations, travelers are recommended to use this name as well.

Local people are very welcoming and friendly, proud of their historical and cultural heritage. They are distinguished by high religiosity, many old Christian churches have been preserved on the island. Throughout the year, the islanders celebrate beautiful religious holidays, the most significant of which are Christmas and Easter. On holidays, local residents observe interesting traditions and rituals, which can be witnessed by guests of local resorts. The islanders are also known for their hardworking character, most of them are now engaged in the agricultural sector and fishing industry. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Traditional crafts have always been revered here. The island is home to hereditary potters and woodcarvers whose workshops can be visited in literally all cities and villages. Ceramics are some of the most popular souvenirs among tourists. Besides, they can buy interesting handicrafts and home decorations made of wood and clay. Lesbos is the venue for numerous international festivals, which are invariably visited by many foreign guests.

In August, the International Music Festival takes place in the city of Mithymna. Each year, the festival follows a certain theme and invites musicians from around the world take. Concerts are held not only in local cultural centers but also right on the streets. Guests of the festival can visit musical performances for free. The main participants of the festival are groups performing classical music. Great attention is always paid to the participation of children who are thus introduced to the world of art.

In recent years, Lesbos has also become the venue for the International Gastronomy Festival, which typically involves at least ten cities and villages located on the island. Each settlement prepares a unique program involving tastings of the best regional products and traditional dishes. The festival usually lasts at least ten days and every day "moves" to another city. It is participated by local farmers and winemakers, as well as the best chefs and representatives of other regions of Greece.

The most unusual holiday in Lesbos' calendar is the International Women's Festival, which is mainly visited by lesbian women. This festival was held for the first time in 2000 but caused discontent from local authorities. They tried to achieve an official ban on the event but numerous claims have been ignored. The women’s festival became annual, today it is one of the main places of pilgrimage for lesbians in the world. The venue for holding the unusual event is the village of Eresos where an interesting entertainment program is arranged for ladies. Here, open-air cinemas show thematic films and a huge selection of romantic entertainment is available to female visitors. They can watch the sunset in the most picturesque corners of the coast, take exciting boat trips or learn traditional Greek dances.

It’s kind of amazing that such a great variety of holidays and traditions coexists on such a tiny island. The town of Agiassos is a permanent venue for the annual Satire Carnival, which was born here in 1938. Modern Lesvos will surely surprise travelers with its multifaceted culture, in which historical traditions are surprisingly combined with modern trends.