Custom of ΄Trizonia΄ (crickets) in Agioi Deka on Holy Thursday

Every year on Holy Thursday, a unique tradition comes to life in the village of Agioi Deka. The children gather in Skafidouli, at the foothills of the mountain, and take up wooden rattles known as “trizonia” (crickets), striking them to produce a loud, resonant clatter. The custom carries a dual symbolism: it participates in the solemn mourning of the day, when church bells fall silent, and it echoes ancient beliefs that noise can drive away evil spirits. Today, the tradition is kept alive by the Cultural Association of Agioi Deka, as they wind through the village’s narrow streets, rattles in hand, chanting the hymn “Ai geneai pasai.”

Skafidouli

The site itself is steeped in legend. A large rock there resembles a boat—or, according to some, the Virgin Mary. Local tradition holds that the rock was carved by human hands in ancient times, lending the area an enduring sense of sacredness.

ELENI KORONAKI