Georgia celebrates Easter

Orthodox Christians around the globe and in Georgia are celebrating the most important day in the religious calendar – Easter.

The Orthodox world is celebrating Easter today, April 12 this year.

On the eve of Easter a holy liturgy was held in all churches across the country, which was attended by many Georgian believers.

Click here to learn more about the most common Eastern traditions in Georgia.

The festive service started at 11pm and continued until the early hours of this morning, during which prayers were shared and clergy and parishioners with icons, crosses and candles walked around the church chanting.

Traditionally, the Easter night liturgy was attended by several Government officials. Also, the Easter night liturgy marked the end of 46 days of fasting, which started on March 3 this year.

The Holy Bible said Jesus Christ gave his life to repay all sins and deliver salvation of humanity, died on the cross and rose on the third day. With the Lord’s resurrection, the doors of heaven opened for people.

Traditionally, Georgians dye boiled eggs red during Easter festivities and bake special sweet cake with raisins called Paska.

The day after Easter Sunday is marked as the burial ground memorial day and families traditionally go to ceremonies and visit their deceased relatives.

Woman from Georgia's mountainous area visits her deceased husband's grave the day after Easter Sunday.