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Every year on August 6th, the Lentil Festival is held in the area of Saint Donatus in Englouvi, Lefkada.
Englouvi lentils have been growing in the region since the Venetian era, preserving their original seed stock. They are internationally recognized among 8,500 lentil varieties under the code ELL293. Their cultivation follows traditional methods wherever possible.
Rich in calcium and iron, Englouvi lentils stand out for their quick cooking time and exceptional flavour compared to other legumes. Their seeds are notably small, irregular in shape, and display a range of colors, from dark brown to light yellow and from black to pale with dark spots —a feature that sets them apart from other lentil varieties.
Situated at 730 meters, Englouvi is the highest and one of the oldest villages in Lefkada. Located at the heart of the island, its name reflects its setting, as it is encircled by mountains. The Englouvi plateau is recognized by the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations) as a protected area of outstanding natural, aesthetic, and cultural value in Greece.
Lentil Festival Celebrations
The festival on August 6th attracts many visitors. The event begins with an evening prayer at the small chapel of Saint Donatus, followed by the serving of lentil soup cooked in large cauldrons and offered to everyone for free. The picturesque setting, with its old stone storage buildings, provides a stunning backdrop for the lively celebration, culminating in traditional music and dancing.
www.postmodern.gr /Giannis Giannakopoulos
