Since 1762,the biggest festival of the island is taking place every year to celebrate the Assumption of Mary.The festivities last 3 days (the 14 th ,15 th and 16 th of August).Below the castle,in Chora (specifically in Rodia) you will find the church of Panagia Portaitissa,the most beautiful church in the Dodecanese.

Both on the 14 th and the 15 th of August,the whole island gathers in the churchyard where the big feast is set up with violins,lutes,songs and dances!Local residents are dressed up with traditional costumes and lead the dance until dawn!On the Assumption of Mary day,local women cook and offer the so-called “Labriano” which is stuffed lamb.

On the 16 th ,” traditional,amusing competitions called “Koukania” are taking place which include races,swimming,egg races and “catching the rooster”-an effigy of a rooster placed on the top of a greased pillar.Winner is whoever climbs up faster and catches the rooster! During your stay in Astypalaia,take the chance to visit the ecclesiastical museum to admire the collection of rare findings such as a 17 th century epitaph and a 15 th century icon of Christ.

(photo credits: astypalaia-island.gr)