on September 8th
Fourteen kilometres from Parikia, the village of Marmara, meaning ‘marble’, was named after the ancient marble building material found there, which has been incorporated into the homes and chapels of the village. On entering Marmara, we see the mill and, further on, a traditional cafe offering various delicacies. There are also several old mansions.
The double basilica chapel of Pera Panagia is located in the southeastern part of the village. Three arches link the two aisles that are supported by ancient columns. The chapel is built at an idyllic spot, with eucalyptus trees along the paved road leading to its entrance. The chapel’s beautiful marble bell tower is one of the most elaborate on Paros. The iconostasis is wood-carved and gold-plated. The icon of the Virgin Mary of Marmaris is dated to the 17th century but has undergone a significant restoration.
The celebration of Pera Panagia takes place on September 8th. Residents attend vespers and the Divine Liturgy with religious solemnity. A feast follows the procession of the icon of the Virgin Mary that takes place after the Orthros (the matins or early morning prayers). Treats are then offered in the church courtyard. All residents, as well as numerous visitors, participate with religious solemnity in the festivals of Paros, attending vespers and, following the divine liturgy, contribute in their own way to the feast. Some bring the traditional alcoholic beverage, souma, or wine. In contrast, others bring pies, revithada, or other delicacies they have prepared before at home, and the festival culminates with feasting, dancing and singing that goes on for many hours.
The most famous Parian dishes are the kakavia, gouna (salted sun-dried fish), salatouri, kolokythokeftedes, tomatokeftedes, chickpeas in the oven, ambelofassoula, fava, karavoli, and kalfa with skordalia. The cheeses are also exceptional. Xinomizithra, ladotiri, brine cheese, touloumisio and mizithra, combined with paximadi, and kritharokouloures. Housewives make spoon sweet, rafiolia, mizithropitakia (mizithra pie), lambrokouloura, lazarakia, petimezenia (cookies using petimezi instead of sugar) and skaltsounia, as well as the traditional alcoholic beverage souma.
An Unforgettable Festival
The festival is not just a celebration; it is an experience that bridges tradition with modern life, locals with travellers, religious devotion with the joy of companionship. For those visiting Paros in September, it offers a unique opportunity to feel the authentic soul of the Cyclades.
Indicative Schedule
September 6 – Eve
- 19:00: Great Vespers service at the church.
- 20:30: Small treats offered in the church courtyard (loukoumi, local spirits, sweets).
- 21:00+: A warm, friendly atmosphere prevails in the village square, with musicians rehearsing and spontaneous dancing.
September 7 – Feast Day
- 07:30: Morning service & Divine Liturgy.
- 10:30: Procession of the icon through the village.
- 11:00: Treats for visitors (loukoumi, raki, sweets).
- 13:00: Midday feast with traditional Parian food.
- 20:00–03:00+: Main celebration with violins, laouto (lute), and island folk dances in the square until dawn.
🎶 Music & Dance
- Traditional Cycladic island music with violin and laouto.
- Often features well-known local Parian musicians.
- Dancing lasts until sunrise, with circle dances and improvised songs.
💡 Tips
- Arrive early to find a spot in the square.
- Wear comfortable shoes (you’ll be dancing!).
- Bring cash – many treats and local products are sold in the village.
- Expect large crowds – the festival attracts locals and visitors from all over the island.
Photo: zeidoron.blogspot.com
