Kastellorizo (Meis) Island is renowned not only for its colorful waterfront houses, crystal-clear waters, and peaceful atmosphere but also for its rich cultural and religious traditions. One of the island’s most significant annual celebrations is the Prophet Elijah Festival (Profilitis Ilias).
Celebrated every year on July 20, this important Greek Orthodox feast is much more than a religious observance. It transforms the island into a vibrant celebration filled with traditional music, local cuisine, family gatherings, and authentic Greek island culture. If you are planning to visit Kastellorizo during the summer, this festival offers one of the best opportunities to experience the island at its liveliest.
Who Is Prophet Elijah (Profilitis Ilias)?
Prophet Elijah, known in Greek as Profilitis Ilias, is one of the most revered prophets in the Old Testament and an important figure in Christianity.
Throughout Greece, many chapels dedicated to Prophet Elijah are built on mountain peaks and high hills. According to Greek tradition, these elevated locations symbolize his closeness to heaven.
Kastellorizo also has a small chapel dedicated to Prophet Elijah, which becomes the spiritual center of the island during the annual festival.
When Is the Prophet Elijah Festival Celebrated?
According to the Greek Orthodox calendar, the Feast of Prophet Elijah is celebrated every year on July 20.
The festivities usually begin on the evening of July 19 with a religious service and continue throughout the following day with celebrations across the island.
Visitors arriving in the second half of July can enjoy one of Kastellorizo’s most festive and culturally rich periods.
How Do the Celebrations Begin on Kastellorizo?
The festival begins on the evening before the feast with a special church service.
Local residents gather at the chapel to light candles, offer prayers, and honor religious icons. The church is beautifully decorated with flowers, creating a warm and spiritual atmosphere.
As night falls, the waterfront tavernas become lively gathering places where families, friends, and visitors enjoy traditional Greek music, delicious food, and the relaxed hospitality that Kastellorizo is famous for.
What Happens on Festival Day?
On the morning of July 20, a solemn Divine Liturgy is held at the chapel.
After the service, visitors are often offered traditional refreshments, and locals warmly welcome both friends and tourists to join the celebrations.
Throughout the day, the harbor comes alive with:
- Traditional Greek music
- Folk dancing
- Local food and delicacies
- Family gatherings
- Cultural events
- Community celebrations
By evening, Kastellorizo’s picturesque harbor transforms into an open-air festival filled with music, laughter, and celebration.
Kastellorizo’s Famous Harbor Jumping Tradition
One of the most memorable local customs associated with the Prophet Elijah Festival is the tradition of people jumping into the sea fully clothed from the harbor.
This colorful custom has been practiced on the island for many years and has become one of the festival’s most photographed moments. While it is considered a local celebratory tradition rather than an official religious ritual, it perfectly reflects the joyful spirit of the festival.
Many visitors even join the locals in this unique experience, making it one of the highlights of the summer celebration.
Traditional Foods Enjoyed During the Festival
The Prophet Elijah Festival is also an excellent opportunity to discover the flavors of Kastellorizo’s local cuisine.
Popular dishes include:
- Grilled octopus
- Fried calamari
- Fresh seafood
- Greek salad
- Stuffed vine leaves (Dolmades)
- Slow-roasted lamb
- Local cheeses
- Homemade desserts
- Baklava
- Traditional sweets made with honey and almonds
In the evening, restaurants and tavernas offer live Greek music, creating a festive atmosphere that continues well into the night.
How to Reach the Prophet Elijah Chapel
The Chapel of Prophet Elijah is located on one of the highest points of Kastellorizo.
Reaching it requires a short but enjoyable uphill walk. Along the way, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of:
- Kastellorizo Harbor
- The island’s colorful neoclassical houses
- The turquoise Mediterranean Sea
- The Turkish coast and the town of Kaş
The viewpoint is particularly spectacular at sunset, making it one of the island’s favorite photography locations.
Is It Worth Visiting Kastellorizo During the Prophet Elijah Festival?
Absolutely.
The festival offers far more than a religious celebration—it provides an authentic glimpse into the island’s traditions, culture, and community life.
During the festival, visitors can:
- Meet friendly local residents
- Experience authentic Greek island culture
- Attend traditional Orthodox celebrations
- Enjoy live Greek music and folk dances
- Taste local cuisine
- Capture unforgettable photographs
Despite the increased number of visitors, Kastellorizo retains its peaceful charm and welcoming atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
The Prophet Elijah Festival is one of Kastellorizo’s most meaningful annual celebrations, combining religious devotion with vibrant cultural traditions.
Visiting the island during this special event allows travelers to experience not only its stunning natural beauty but also its authentic Greek heritage through church services, traditional music, local cuisine, and joyful community celebrations.
If you want to experience the true spirit of Kastellorizo rather than simply sightseeing, planning your visit around the Prophet Elijah Festival will undoubtedly make your trip even more memorable.
