The celebration of Dekapentavgoustos
The Dekapentavgoustos, also known as the Dormition of the Virgin Mary or the Assumption, is one of the most significant religious and cultural celebrations in Cyprus. Celebrated on August 15th, this day marks the Dormition (or “falling asleep”) of the Virgin Mary, and it holds profound spiritual significance for Orthodox Christians. For Cypriots, this day is not just a religious event but also a time for family gatherings, feasts, and cultural expressions that have been passed down through generations.
Religious Observances
The religious aspect of the Dekapentavgoustos is the centrepiece of the celebration. In Cyprus, the day is marked by church services and ceremonies that are deeply rooted in Orthodox Christian traditions. The period leading up to August 15th, known as the Fast of the Dormition, is a time of fasting and prayer. This two-week fast is one of the most important in the Orthodox Church, second only to Lent, and is observed by many Cypriots as a period of reflection, penance, and spiritual preparation.
On the day of Dekapentavgoustos, churches across Cyprus are filled with worshippers attending the Divine Liturgy. The services often begin early in the morning and include special hymns and prayers dedicated to the Virgin Mary. One of the most significant rituals during the service is the procession of the Epitaphios of the Theotokos (a decorated bier or icon representing the body of the Virgin Mary). The Epitaphios are carried around the church, symbolizing the funeral procession of the Virgin Mary. The faithful often bring flowers to adorn the Epitaphios, and these flowers are later distributed to the congregation as a blessing.
Pilgrimages
For many Cypriots, the Dekapentavgoustos is also a time for pilgrimage. One of the most important pilgrimage sites in Cyprus is the Monastery of Kykkos, located in the Troodos Mountains. The monastery is home to a famous icon of the Virgin Mary, believed to have been painted by St. Luke. This icon is considered miraculous, and many pilgrims visit the monastery during the Dekapentavgoustos to seek blessings, and healing, and to pay homage to the Virgin Mary.
Another significant pilgrimage destination is the Panagia of Trooditissa Monastery, also in the Troodos Mountains. This monastery, like Kykkos, draws large crowds during the feast day. Pilgrims often participate in an overnight vigil, where they pray and light candles, seeking the intercession of the Virgin Mary. These pilgrimages are a testament to the deep faith and devotion that Cypriots have for the Theotokos, or Mother of God.
Cultural and Social Celebrations
Beyond the religious observances, the Dekapentavgoustos is also a major cultural event in Cyprus. It is a public holiday, and for many, it marks the peak of the summer season. As such, it is a time for family reunions, feasts, and traditional music and dance.
Many Cypriots take advantage of the holiday to visit their ancestral villages, reconnect with relatives and enjoy the slower pace of rural life. This return to the villages is often accompanied by large family gatherings and communal meals. The feasts during the Dekapentavgoustos are lavish, with tables laden with traditional Cypriot dishes such as souvla (large chunks of meat cooked on a spit), kleftiko (slow-cooked lamb), and various meze (small dishes). Seasonal fruits, particularly watermelon and figs, are also abundant during this time.
In addition to the feasts, villages often host cultural events such as traditional music and dance performances. The sounds of the violin and laouto (a stringed instrument) fill the air as villagers gather to dance the sousta, a traditional Cypriot dance. These celebrations are an expression of Cypriot identity, blending religious reverence with cultural pride.
The Spirit of Community
One of the most enduring aspects of the Dekapentavgoustos in Cyprus is the sense of community it fosters. Whether through shared religious rituals, communal meals, or cultural festivities, the day brings people together in a spirit of unity and solidarity. It is a time when social barriers are set aside, and people come together to celebrate their shared heritage and faith.
For many Cypriots, the Dekapentavgoustos is also a time to reflect on their connection to the Virgin Mary and the values she represents—humility, compassion, and love. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of faith in daily life and the strength of the community in maintaining these traditions.
Conclusion
The Dekapentavgoustos is a day of profound significance in Cyprus, blending deep religious devotion with rich cultural traditions. It is a time of reflection, celebration, and unity, where the spiritual and social life of the island comes alive. Whether through attending church services, making a pilgrimage, or simply gathering with family and friends, Cypriots celebrate this day with a deep sense of reverence and joy, keeping the spirit of the Virgin Mary at the heart of their festivities.
