Celebrated for over 200 year
Every year on January 30, Tinos celebrates the “Fanarakia,” a religious festival dedicated to the discovery of the icon of the Virgin Mary found on this day in 1823, depicting the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary.
Why they were named “Fanarakia”
According to testimonies from that period, the nun Pelagia had repeated visions that led, after a few months, to the discovery of the icon of the Annunciation. When the joyful news spread throughout the island, the inhabitants of Tinos rushed to Chora to worship the icon, holding lanterns in their hands to light their way as it had grown dark.
“Fanarakia” dominate the sky on the evening of January 30th, giving light, strength and hope.
Since then, for over 200 years until today, a great religious celebration has been held on the island of Tinos with a procession of the icon through the alleys of Chora. Crowds of people, locals and visitors alike, accompanied by a philharmonic orchestra, revive that night of January 30 with reverence, holding elaborately crafted lanterns in their hands. The torchlight procession is accompanied by fireworks and ends at the port, creating a spectacular atmosphere.
Ηow you can be there?
If you would like to experience the festive atmosphere on the island of Tinos, book your tickets online or at your travel agent from the port of Rafina with Andros Queen.