Project Detail: Panagia Tou Charou or the Virgin of Death

Contest:

LuganoPhotoDays 2017



Brand:

LuganoPhotoDays



Author:

Adolfo Massazza

 

Project Info

Panagia Tou Charou or the Virgin of Death

Every August, the church of Panagia Tou Charou in Lipsi, Greece, hosts an intense collective celebration.

The name “Virgin of Death” derives from the Madonna portrayed inside. She is the only one in Greece that, instead of a baby Jesus, holds a crucifix in her arms.

Church representatives, local authorities, soldiers, sailors, the whole population of Lipsi and nearby islands climb the steep hill to reach the ancient Church, where a mass takes place.

During the night a miracle occurred: lilies - which were brought here in Spring and by then dried - have bloosomed again.

The church resounds with choral chants and blessed bread is distributed among the faithfuls.

Photos