Living traditions
Feast of Saint Andrew in Patras
Cathedral of Saint Andrew, Patras, Achaea
Field photographThe church of St. Andreas
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A photograph to live with. Enter a private viewing.Introduction
Patras honours its patron saint with an all-night vigil, a vast gathering at the cathedral and a procession of the Apostle’s relics through the city.
The Feast of Saint Andrew is one of the largest religious celebrations in Patras. Worship begins on the eve of 29 November and culminates on 30 November with the Divine Liturgy and the procession of the sacred relics and icon around the cathedral district.
The eve of the feast
Thousands of worshippers arrive at the cathedral from the evening of 29 November. The vigil continues through the night, while a temporary market and other activity fill the surrounding streets.
Patron saint of Patras
Saint Andrew is closely identified with the city, where Christian tradition places his martyrdom. The cathedral houses relics associated with the Apostle.
The procession of the relics
After the principal service on 30 November, clergy and civic representatives accompany the sacred relics and icon in procession through the streets around the cathedral.
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