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David Neumeyer

Ochi Day on Gavdos: a day full of symbolic power

Updated: Oct 28


The ceremony on Ochi Day on Gavdos

As one of the most important national holidays, Ochi Day is not only a significant day in Greek history, but also a day of pride and determination - values that are deeply rooted in the culture of Gavdos. On October 28, the whole of Greece remembers the moment when the country bravely said “No”, preserving its independence and resistance to foreign powers. On Gavdos, an island that embodies an unmistakable spirit of independence due to its unique location and history, this day is particularly celebrated. Here you can feel the pride in freedom, independence and the sense of togetherness that unites Greece and Gavdos in a special way.


#1: What is celebrated on Ochi Day?

#2: Ochi Day on Gavdos: a cerenomy with a lot of symbolic power





 

#1: What is celebrated on Ochi Day?


It was October 28, 1940, a day that would go down in Greek history. Early in the morning, the Italian ambassador Emanuele Grazzi visited the residence of Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas. The Italian dictator Mussolini had given Metaxas an ultimatum: Italian troops were to be allowed to enter Greek territory and occupy strategic points. But the Greek prime minister's response was short and clear: “Ochi!” - “No!”


This simple refusal marked the beginning of a courageous resistance against the threat of occupation and symbolized the determination of the Greek people to defend their freedom. Before the sun had even risen, Italian soldiers marched into Greece from Albania - and came up against a determined and well-organized Greek army that refused to allow them to advance. What Mussolini had described as a “walk to Athens” turned into an unexpected defeat for the Axis powers.



Since then, Ochi Day has been a symbol of Greece's indomitable will and determination to stand up for freedom and independence, even against overpowering enemies. Every year, this day is celebrated with parades, ceremonies and festivities and commemorates not only the military victory, but also the unshakeable pride and independence of the Greek people. Ochi Day is the second most important secular holiday in Greece after March 25, the day of liberation from Ottoman rule.


#2: Ochi Day on Gavdos: a ceremony with a lot of symbolic power



It is the end of October. After a turbulent summer season, total calm returns to the island. But on October 28, everything is suddenly different. The ferry is full again and the sleepy island wakes up once more. Some of the tavernas that were still open in October close on this day. But they are still cooking and the kitchens are busy. A public holiday in Greece means, in particular, that there is plenty of food on the table. And Greek families are big. Many family members travel to Gavdos for this day to take part in the family festivities. Like its Cretan neighbor, Gavdos stands for pride, autonomy and independence. No wonder, as both islands had to defend themselves against willing conquerors for centuries. And even today, the island's locals symbolize the will of independence like no other community, living in great isolation at the southernmost point of Europe. The highlight of the celebrations is undoubtedly the parade in Kastri in the morning. Marching music is played to the sound of solemn music. The fact that the music only comes from the jukebox is just a minor detail. The entire island community gathers in the center of Kastri on the main street.



The location of the parade on Gavdos: In the tranquil mountain village of Kastri

The military, the mayor and the island's pope also attend the event. To the sound of music, the island's children carry the Greek flag through the streets. It may be a small parade, but its symbolic effect conveys a great message. The locals identify 100% with their island and want to be able to live there independently in the future, even if life in seclusion is not always easy. After years of struggle, the opening of the secondary school this year was a significant success for the entire island community and especially for the children.




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