“Clean Monday,” known as “Kathara Deftera” in Greek, is a cherished annual celebration in Greece. It marks the commencement of Great Lent, a significant period for the Greek Orthodox Church. It kicks off seven weeks before Greek Orthodox Easter Sunday, symbolizing a time of spiritual preparation and reflection.
The festivities of Clean Monday actually commence on the evening before, with a special service where individuals seek forgiveness from each other. This act of reconciliation sets the tone for the Lenten season, emphasizing the importance of starting with a clear conscience and renewed love for one another.
Traditions and Customs
Often referred to as “Ash Monday,” Clean Monday marks the conclusion of Carnival revelries, encouraging Orthodox Christians to abandon indulgent behaviors and non-fasting foods associated with the Carnival period. It is a public holiday widely observed throughout Greece and Cyprus, characterized by outdoor excursions, feasting on fasting foods, and the traditional activity of kite flying.
During Lent, Orthodox Christians traditionally abstain from consuming meat, eggs, and dairy products, except for fish on specific feast days. However, shellfish and mollusks are permitted, leading to the creation of elaborate seafood dishes such as cuttlefish, octopus, shrimp, and mussels. Additionally, “taramosalata,” a dip made from salted and cured fish roe, is a staple part of the Clean Monday feast, typically enjoyed with “lagana,” a special unleavened flatbread baked exclusively for this occasion.
Regional Traditions and Celebrations
Clean Monday is rich in diverse regional traditions across Greece. For instance, kite flying symbolizes the arrival of spring and is embraced by families who gather in open spaces to fill the skies with colorful kites. Moreover, various regions uphold unique customs, such as the “Vlach Wedding” in Thebes, featuring playful songs and dance, and the enactment of an Ottoman-inspired scenario in Mesta village on Chios Island.
Clean Monday in Leros
In Leros, families usually prepare all the traditional vegetarian and fish dishes and celebrate with the whole family at home. However, when there are small kids in the family, many families opt for a picnic to enjoy kite flying together.
Overall, Clean Monday holds profound cultural and religious significance in Greece, serving as a time for spiritual renewal, communal gatherings, and the preservation of cherished traditions that connect individuals with their heritage and faith.
