ARCHITECTURE
In Megalo Chorio, the capital of the island, the ornamental plants, the planters, the cobbled street and the square present a beautiful image. The settlement was sheltered in the Castle until the early 1800s, when it was moved to the mountainside.
Livadia This is a relatively new settlement. The Command Hall built by the Italians is remarkable.
FOLK CULTURE
Dance of the cup (28/7): It is organized in the square of Megalo Chorio by the church committee of Ag. Panteleimon for the purpose of collecting money for the needs of the temple. The front man holds a cup, while the next person to put money in the cup will draw the dance in turn.
Feast of St. Panteleimon (25 - 27/7): The great three-day festival in honor of the patron saint of Tilos.
Fair in Mikro Chorio Annual summer fair with traditional chickpea soup.
Large secular festivals with traditional music, dance, free food are held on 23/8 at the churches of Panagia Politissa and Panagia Kamariani. On 31/8 the church of Timia Zoni in Mikro Chorio celebrates.
Other holidays, events and festivals:
Easter: Representation of Lazarus (Luppies) by children, who put a boy under tree branches, while all around other children sing the song of Lazarus. Gathering dye root for Easter candles (Luppies), making a Judas effigy (fortified man with clothes, shoes, painted gourd for head and hidden messages) which is burnt ceremonially. On Easter day, the children burst improvised kegs, the "Bombes".
Marriage: Custom of the "false bridegroom". They make fun of a friend who tries to kiss the bride, while friends and relatives supposedly try to protect her.
Halloween: Children go around the houses and shops dressed in masquerades.
Editor: Fotini Anastasopoulou