Samos island festival revives ancient Greek women’s races honouring Hera

In the seventh annual festival, events began on August 18 with concerts at the archaeological museum and the ancient theatre of Pythagoreion, the central town, where a procession replicating the ancient tradition took place and headed to the port.

This was preceded by the lighting of a torch at the ancient sanctuary of Hera and women’s races from the

In antiquity, the celebrations included women’s foot races at night accompanied by torches, musicians, with poetry contests also held, among other religious and cultural events.

The events are wrapping up Wednesday night, a full moon night celebrated at archaeological sites throughout Greece. On Samos, the celebration under the stars will be dedicated to Spanish poet Federico Garcia Lorca.

The events are supported by local townships, the chamber of commerce, professional associations and the local branch of the Ephorate of antiquities.

Source: AMNA