Visitors are always welcome, regardless of their denomination, to attend services at the main churches of the island.

Even when there isn't a service and if the church is open, visitors are welcome to enjoy looking inside or to take the opportunity for some quiet meditation. The churches are not museums but working places of worship and visitors should respect customs and not wear immodest attire, speak loudly or take photos of the interiors. Ladies if you sit down, remember not to cross your legs as it is deemed immodest.

According to Greek Orthodox tradition, every day of the year is dedicated to a Christian saint or martyr. January 7 for example, is the day of Saint John the Baptist and it is the name day for all Greek people named Yannis (or Ioannis = John, male) or Yanna (or Ioanna, female). A person's Name Day is considered more important than the same person's actual birthday and it is always celebrated in Greece.

How do Greek people celebrate their name days?

If a friend of yours has his name day, then you should give him a call and wish him "Hronia Polla". If this is translated, then it means "Many Years" and it is a wish for good health and prosperity. You should ask him if he will accept visits at his house.

Many Greek names have English translations.To see whether your name has Greek origins and to find out the meaning, check the list below. Those with a star (*) change every year. As you will see, most name days do not coincide with catholic or protestant name days.