Athenians braved the bad weather and headed to the hills today to mark the traditional Clean Monday celebrations that include flying colourful kites, despite the downpour early in the morning. “Every year it’s better because last year we celebrated with ice pellets. So I am certain next year we will have sunshine,” Athens mayor Giorgos Kaminis said after he visited the Philopappos Hill in downtown Athens, Greece. “There is a message of optimism in every Athens neighborhood that organized celebrations. This is a great message of hope, optimism and love for the people,” he added. The municipality organized several events across the city, with Athens’ band welcoming visitors to the Philopappos Hill with traditional tunes. Other bands were set up in several neighborhoods and seasonal delicacies were handed out to citizens. About 3,000 portions of “lagana,” the traditional bread baked for the occasion, and olives were distributed to Athenians. Similar celebrations took place in other Greek cities, including Thessaloniki and Chania, Crete. (source: ana-mpa)
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