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Zakynthos

Colors of Zakynthos - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

St Marks square, Zante town, Zakynthos Zakynthos is widely recognized as the home city of Dionysios Solomos, the author of the national hymn of Greece. One of the first rebellions in Europe also happened in Zakynthos in 1628. As historically people of different nations arrived at the island, local people are very tolerant and treat various cultures with patience. Needless to say, vacationers should respect local laws and traditions. Tourists shouldn’t be afraid to ask strangers for help – locals are always friendly and will not refuse aid.
Zakynthos is a beautiful island that attracts visitors by its picturesque nature landscapes, unique historical monuments and wide choice of entertainments. The majority of the local places … Open
Such traits as independence and love for freedom are typical among local people. In order to make Zakynthos locals like you, simply learn several phrases in Greek and agree when they say that Greece is the best country in the world. This part of the country somewhat differs from the rest of Greece in terms of language use. Local people use some Italian words in their everyday life. This happens because the city was under the rule of the Venetian Republic for quite a long time. When communicating with others, locals are always friendly and open. They have a wonderful sense of humor and active body language.
Festivals and celebrations in the capital of Zakynthos Island have always surprised vacationers with their rich heritage. As Christianity is the primary religion in whole Greece, all religious holidays are widely celebrated in the region. Among the most notable holidays, it is important to mention Fota (Epiphany), Easter, the Assumption of the Mother of God, and Christmas. As a rule, local festive activities have much in common with other European countries. Perhaps, decorations with leaves of date palms are the only exception. Local people make various items from the leaves and decorate them with religious symbols, such as crosses, doves, and horses. These items are then attached to flower bouquets. Copyright www.orangesmile.com
Zakynthos attracts tourists with children with an abundance of beautiful beaches and resort hotels, but one cannot limit the popular resort to beach entertainment only. On the island, there … Open
Panayiria is one more important religious holiday. This is something like a countryside festival, during which visitors can attend a religious fair trade. Solemn processions to churches and other sacred places have become an essential part of Panayiria. In the evening, local people gather at home in order to celebrate the holiday together with their family members. The festive table is always full of drinks and all kinds of delicacies. Barbecue is one more popular way to celebrate the holiday. These events take place on July 27 and August 15, during the Assumption of the Mother of God.
Among the most interesting events in Zakynthos, it is particularly important to mention the two-week long carnival that takes place in the city in the middle of August. As the island was a part of the Venetian Republic for a long time, the tradition of celebrating Venetian Carnival is still alive. However, the carnival in Zakynthos has several peculiarities – locals dress as characters from Commedia dell'arte, Dialogues, Venetian Wedding, and make a procession on the city’s streets. The celebration ends with a satirical performance that has a symbolic name – the Funeral of the Mask. It is a fantastic opportunity to participate in an ancient celebration.
Fans of Greek cuisine will find it very exciting to relax in Zakynthos restaurants. That said, local restaurants specializing in the national cuisine are not the only notable venues on the … Open
Besides that, there is one more carnival that starts in February (it can start at the beginning, in the middle or the end of the month depending on the Lent). Colorful and festival processions appear on the main streets of the city. Among participants, there are both children and adults. This carnival also has much in common with the Venetian Carnival, and the reason is still the same – the region was once under the reign of Venice. This is a fabulous time when visitors of all ages can easily find something interesting and exciting. Different contests, trivia, cycling competitions, and theatre performances seem to never stop during the popular event. The carnival traditionally ends with a special activity called Povero.
Two times a year, the capital of Zakynthos Island becomes the location of solemn processions dedicated to Saint Dionysius. This event takes place in the middle of August (August 24) and in the middle of December. Thousands of Christians make a pilgrimage to the holy places in order to honor the saint. This religious holiday has some peculiarities that exist only on the island. Needless to say, a visit to Zakynthos is a true gift to everyone interested in the local culture and traditions.
Zakynthos - guide chapters 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

City tours, excursions and tickets in Zakynthos and surroundings

Reference information
Map of all castles
Survived castles around Zakynthos
♥   Castle 'Chlemoutsi' northwestern Elis, 24.3 km from the center. On the map   Photo
♥   Castle 'Assos Castle' Assos, 73.9 km from the center. On the map   Photo
Car rental on OrangeSmile.com Rentals in Zakynthos

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Colors of Zakynthos in photos

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Traditions and festivals in cities around Zakynthos

Cityguide on traditions, mentality and lifestyle of people in Zakynthos. Learn the best periods to visit Zakynthos to discover its soul - authentic festivals, events and celebrations. We will also reveal the interesting habits, attitude towards the world and to tourists in Zakynthos.
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