The tradition of the “Mandilades” is revived every year on the rocks of Meteora on the feast day of Saint George.
In Kastraki, next to the small chapel of Saint George Mandilas, daring young men climb the rock to remove the old scarves that had been left as offerings the previous year in the Saint’s cave, and hang new ones. During the Divine Liturgy, pilgrims bring scarves, asking for the Saint’s blessing.
The custom dates back to the period of Ottoman rule. According to legend, a Turk once tried to cut trees in the Saint’s forest but fell and was injured. His wife, invoking the Saint’s help, offered her scarves so that he might recover. According to the elders, Saint George saved the man.
Each year, the custom also attracts many tourists who are visiting the area for holidays during this time.
Source: trikalaopinion.gr
