Gourounia: A Slow Cook Dish in a Wood Oven
The Dance of the Gourounia in the village of Orounda is a special custom and one of the most traditional celebrations of Cypriot rural life. This custom has been kept alive for many decades and is an important part of the cultural heritage of Cyprus. In this context, the Gourounia Dance is not only a simple celebration, but an opportunity to preserve folk tradition, rural culture and community, as reflected in such customs.
So, on Friday, September 20, Orounda is preparing an evening full of feast, along with: Evdokia Kadi and Nikolas Pissias who will lift our mood with music. Of course, such an evening could not be absent delicious food.
History and Origin of the Custom
The Gourounia Dance starts from the traditional rural life of Cyprus, where pig breeding was a key activity of farmers. The pig was an animal extremely important to the household economy, as it provided many products, such as meat, fat and skin that had multiple uses in everyday life. Therefore, the killing of the pig and the use of its products was an important event and was accompanied by celebrations and rituals.
The Gourounia Dance took place mainly during the winter season when the pig was slaughtered. In Cypriot tradition, this massacre was accompanied by celebrations and dances, as the whole community
participated in this event. Over time, this tradition incorporated more cultural elements and acquired the form we know today, where it is celebrated with special splendour in the village of Orounta.
The Importance of Gourounia in Traditional Cypriot Life
The pig was one of the main animals of the Cypriot farming family. As it was a wealth for the home, caring for and raising it were critical activities. The pig was a source of food and survival, while the products resulting from its slaughter had a variety of uses. Its meat, the well-known pork, was a key element of the Cypriot diet, while its fat was used for cooking and making products such as sausages and lountza. In addition, the skin of the animal was used for various everyday items.
Therefore, the pig was of particular value, and the process of slaughter was one of the most crucial moments of the agricultural year. This moment was not only practical, but also symbolic, as it offered the community the opportunity to celebrate and strengthen its bonds.
The Process of Slaughter and Celebration
The slaughter of the pig, which was the starting point of the custom, was a ritual process. All family members participated in it, with each having a specific role. The preparation included cleaning and preparing the animal, while also carefully sorting the parts of the pig that would be used for cooking and preparing the products.
Then the massacre was accompanied by feasting and dancing, with the village gathering to celebrate. The Gourounia Dance was the highlight of the festival, where locals danced around the pig and sang traditional songs. The men and women wore traditional costumes, while the feast continued until late at night, with food, drink and music.
The Modern Form of the Custom
Today, the Gourounia Dance in the village of Orounda has evolved into a great cultural event that attracts not only locals, but also visitors from all over Cyprus. Although pig farming has declined and rural life has changed, the custom retains its significance as a symbol of tradition and community. During the festival, various activities are organized, such as traditional music and dance performances, exhibitions of local products, while residents prepare traditional dishes from pork, such as sausages and lountza.
In addition, the celebration promotes cooperation and participation of young generations, as children and young people actively participate in preparations and events. Thus, the custom not only survives, but is revitalized and adapted to modern needs, without losing its traditional value.
The Dance of the Gourounia as a means of preserving tradition
The Gourounia Dance is not only a celebration, but also a way of preserving the cultural identity of the inhabitants of Orounta. Through participation in this custom, the villagers renew their ties with the past, keeping alive the values and traditions of their ancestors. Also, custom offers an opportunity for social cohesion and strengthening community ties.
In the context of modern Cypriot society, where traditional ways of life have changed significantly, this custom offers a way to reflect on the roots and history of the region. It is also a reminder of the importance of rural life, traditional professions and the cooperation that characterized small communities.
Entrance: €15 (with food and 1 drink), €5 for children under 12 years old. For children under 6 years old the entrance is free.
Pre-booking is required until 18/9/23 at 99760907.
Conclusion
The Gourounia Dance in the village of Orounda in Cyprus is a living tradition that connects the past with the present. It is a celebration of community, rural culture and cultural heritage. The continuation of this custom reflects the desire of the inhabitants to preserve their identity and strengthen their social and cultural roots, while offering a unique experience to both locals and visitors.
