Georgia celebrates Easter today

Orthodox Christians in Georgia and the rest of the world are celebrating one of the most significant dates in the religious calendar, Easter.

The bells in Georgian churches were ringing loudly around the country last night calling believers to attend the holy liturgy and join in on celebrations.

The festive service started around 11 pm and continued until the early hours of this morning, during which clergy and parishioners with icons, crosses and candles walked around the church chanting. Photo by the PM's press office

Those who attended the holy liturgy received the Holy Fire which was brought from Jerusalem to Georgia by a charter flight at 23:55.

The Easter Eve liturgy marked the end of 48 days of fasting, which started on February 19.

Traditionally, Georgians dye boiled eggs red during Easter festivities and bake a special sweet cake with raisins, called Paska. Photo from the Ministry of Corrections Facebook page

The Holy Bible says Jesus Christ gave his life to pay for the sins of the people and rose on the third day.

Good Friday, Easter Sunday and the day after Easter Sunday are public holidays in Georgia.