5 Easter Traditions from Around the World
4. Czech Republic and Slovakia
This is one unique Easter tradition of whipping or spanking carried out in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. In the morning, men spank women with a handmade whip called pomlázka in Czech and korbáč in Slovakia. This is not done for suffering or pain, but a legend goes that women should be spanked to keep them in good health and beauty throughout the year.
5. Greece
In Greece, the Greek Orthodox Church follows the Byzantine calendar. Hence their Orthodox Easter Sunday is celebrated on a different date – April 15 this year. On Good Friday, people in Athens carry a replica of Jesus Christ’s tomb all around town. But the most sacred Easter event is when people go to the churches with unlit candles on Saturday at midnight. The unlit candles signify the declaration of Christ’s resurrection and chant “Christos Anesti” (Christ is risen!) and the reply comes “Alithos Anesti” (He is risen indeed!). When this is heard, people light the candles from the Holy Flame which has been brought from Christ’s native cave in Jerusalem. They then walk around town celebrating with fireworks and bells.
