Feast of the Assumption at Leros Castle

Large numbers of worshippers took part in celebrations for the Dormition of the Virgin Mary on Leros, centred on the historic church of Panagia of the Castle.

A solemn episcopal vespers service was held on the afternoon of Friday 14 August 2026, led by Bishop Stefanos of Stratonikeia.

He was joined by priests Nikodimos Fokas, episcopal representative for Leros, Nikolaos Tachliampouris, Ioannis Tachliampouris, Paisios Angelakis and Michail Chatzidakis.

Hymns in honour of the Virgin were sung before a flower-covered bier. A procession then took place around the castle's stone paths, followed by a supplication service and salutations for the Dormition.

A large choir led by cantor Georgios Eleni sang during the service.

Those attending included Leros mayor Timotheos Kottakis, municipal council president Panagiotis Koumbaros, deputy mayors Eleni Chelmi and Emmanouil Maravelias, opposition leader Michalis Kolias and councillors from his group, representatives of organisations and associations, and many worshippers.

On the morning of Saturday 15 August, Bishop Stefanos celebrated the Divine Liturgy as pilgrims climbed to Panagia of the Castle to venerate its historic icon.

After the service, the old sacred icon was carried in procession around the castle paths. Prayers were offered for the health and divine support of people from Leros around the world, followed by a procession around the church.

The Dormition was also celebrated at the parish church of Christ the Saviour on Leros, served by Father Nikodimos Fokas.

Panagia of the Castle remains a central symbol of the island's religious tradition and draws large numbers of worshippers and pilgrims every August.