Living traditions
The Fires of Achlada
Achlada, Florina
Field photographFire at Achlada
Collector mode
A photograph to live with. Enter a private viewing.Introduction
On 23 December, the village of Achlada gathers around towering bonfires built by neighbourhood groups and lit at midnight.
A Christmas fire custom in the Florina region, organised around communal labour, food, wine and the anticipation of the midnight lighting.
A village built around fire
In the days before Christmas, children and adults collect wood and construct large piles around Achlada. Temporary shelters become meeting points for the groups preparing each fire.
At midnight the bonfires are lit. Residents and visitors gather for local food, wine and music, remaining around the flames until late into the night.
Culture, held by place
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