Cyprus observes traditional Easter customs in Paphos villages

Residents across Paphos villages, including Empa and Kelokedara, are actively maintaining long-standing Easter traditions during Holy Week. Central to these customs is the preparation of flaounas, traditional pastries made from cheese, eggs, and spices, which serve as symbols of family and cultural identity. Beyond cooking, families engage in whitewashing homes and cleaning courtyards. Cultural researcher Anna Tselepou highlights the importance of preserving these rituals, noting their roots in local civilization. Specific customs include the blessing of olive branches on Palm Sunday, which occurred this year on April 5, and the preparation of holy water on Holy Thursday. On Holy Thursday, families also dye red eggs, leading to the day being referred to as Red Thursday. Early Good Friday morning marks the start of festive baking, including cross-shaped bread known as stavrokoulouro and egg-topped breads called avotes. While some households use traditional stone ovens to achieve a specific texture, others utilize professional local bakeries.