Tinos, Tarambados, Festival of Saint Charalambos

Tarampados is a picturesque village on the island of Tinos, built in a valley near Kambos. One enters the village through a charming medieval arch, and it is renowned for its traditional houses and architecture. The village’s main feature is its amazing dovecotes—genuine works of art, about 20 of which are exceptionally well-preserved. Exploring the dovecotes by foot is a delightful experience, as well-maintained stone paths lead visitors through a unique green landscape filled with running waters, springs, trees, reeds, and gardens.

The church of Agios (Saint) Charalambos holds a special celebration in honour of the Saint on February 10th. On Tinos, it is traditional to whitewash churches inside and out whenever they celebrate the memory of the saint to whom they are dedicated. Local women participate by cleaning the area around the church, polishing candlestands, and decorating the sanctuary with flowers. After Mass, treats are served in the church courtyard. The festival sometimes culminates in the main square with traditional balo and syrto dances, accompanied by musicians playing instruments based on the violin.

During the festival, people celebrating their name day often open their homes to visitors, decorating their tables with beautiful dinner sets and white tablecloths. Guests are treated to a bounty of local dishes and abundant wine, including psarakia, meringues, pasteli, xerotigana, and homemade raki, often continuing late into the evening.

Tinos is also famous for its traditional cuisine. Notable dishes include:

• Artichokes cooked in various ways

• Sun-dried tomatoes with batter

• Froutalia and savore with molasses

• Fried fish with petimezi sauce

• Pork sausages (saltsisi) and louza of Tinos

Cheeses include the famed graviera and kopanisti, while local sweets feature amygdalota, xerotigana, karidota, pasteli, loukoumi, various kinds of halva, and the renowned thyme honey of Tinos.

The Festival of Saint Charalambos in Tarampados is not only a religious celebration but also a vibrant cultural event that reflects the island’s traditions, culinary heritage, and strong sense of community.

Photo: tinostodaygr