Description
The inhabitants of Pylos celebrate their patron saint the Virgin Mary of Myrtidiotissa every year on September 24th.
Believers of all ages from the surrounding area gather early in the morning for the start of the holy liturgy in the Holy Temple of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary. The congregation worships the holy icon of the Virgin Mary seeking her grace and blessing.
The celebration commences from the afternoon of the previous day with a vespers service.
At the culmination of the religious feast the sacred icon is paraded through the streets of the city, accompanied by the band of the Port Authority and the Municipal Philharmonic Orchestra of Pylos-Nestoros. The societies of Pylos parade in traditional dress and are joined by children from the local schools. In keeping with tradition, throughout the procession, the faithful carry the sacred icon of the Virgin Mary which is surrounded by a garland of flowers. The faithful walk over streets covered with Myrtle leaves and colourful rugs are placed in the streets to honour its reception as it passes each home or business.
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