Easter on Corfu Island

A special custom celebrated in Corfu is the "Botides". The custom takes place on the morning of Holy Saturday, 19 April 2025.



As part of the Easter celebrations, which this year fall on 20 Απριλίου, events are held in various parts of Greece to pay tribute to the country's traditions and customs.

The custom "Botides" witch celebrated in Spianada Square of Corfu takes place on the morning of Holy Saturday at 11:00 am. At this time, the bells of all the churches of the city begin to ring joyfully, the so-called "First Resurrection". This is the signal for the "botides" to be thrown from the windows and balconies of the houses. The "botides" are clay jugs with two handles, decorated with red ribbons and filled with water. These throws are followed by a real feast. After the jugs are smashed, the philharmonic orchestras take to the streets of the city to play the march "Greeks do not fear". The custom seems to have its roots in the period of Venetian rule on the island. The custom of the conquerors breaking old jars on New Year's Day was adopted by the locals but carried over to the Easter celebrations. The shattering sound probably symbolises the victory of life over death. The shards of broken jugs are believed to bring good luck and prosperity to those who owe them, and are collected by Corfiots and visitors alike.