Easter in Mesta

On Ash Monday at the village square and in the presence of many people from all over Chios, one of the villagers disguises himself as an Agha (that is a Turkish judge during the period of Turkish domination) and judges the dwellers and visitors in a mocking way. The Agha surrounded by his escort (that is men who are dressed in an analogous way) arrives at the square in order to bring people to trial. After the trials there is always a dance with traditional music, food and drinks of their own production (that is wine and souma).

The celebration of Suma, (local product, alcoholic drink made of figs) is an example of their tradition and customs. Its important to mention the collective work, and volunteering. From the morning the whole village is prepairing for the feast. To set the barbecues, transfer the figs to the Square to build Ambuka, to make Souma and give it to consumption. Almost under the cover of Taxiarhis, the rest of the village is working.

In the afternoon they set the tables in the square so that visitors from all over the island, dance, eat and drink until morning.