Klidonas
Did you know that certain practices of divination and clairvoyance have survived to the present day, gracing the local community with opportunities to celebrate together and strengthen its bonds? A blatant example, the ancient divination ritual of Klidonas is revived annually on June 23rd–24th in honor of Saint John the Baptist. On the eve of the feast, young women fetch “silent water” from a spring without speaking to anyone. At home, the water takes center stage; the girls’ personal items are placed into the vessel, which is sealed and covered with leaves, and thus dignified. The following day, the vessel is opened publicly, and each item drawn is accompanied by rhymed predictions—usually concerning love. Within some much needed summer magic, bonfires are also lit in neighborhoods, with residents jumping over the flames, believing the fire will purify and drive away illness and misfortune, thus gracing every home with health and joy. Experience Klidonas in Ptolemaida, Perdikkas, and Vlasti.
