Every March 25, Greece comes alive with a special sense of excitement. The streets are decked out in blue and white, flags fly from balconies, and a feeling of collective pride fills the air.

March 25 in Greece is doubly sacred. It marks both the start of the Greek War of Independence in 1821 and the Annunciation, an important Orthodox religious holiday.

From 1453 to 1821, Greece was under Ottoman rule. Despite nearly 400 years of occupation, Greek identity remained strong, largely thanks to the powerful influence of the Greek Orthodox Church. The Greeks, then citizens of the Ottoman Empire, had no independent political power. Over the centuries, numerous uprisings against this rule were attempted, but to no avail.

The uprising began on March 25, 1821. Under the motto “Freedom or Death,” Greek freedom fighters (the klephts-κλέφτες) fought fiercely, and the Greek War of Independence (or Greek Revolution) lasted until 1829.

Through a series of treaties and diplomatic agreements, and across the two world wars, the territories of mainland Greece and its islands were reclaimed one by one, until Greece once again became a unified nation.

The last region to be conquered was the Dodecanese Islands, after World War II. Greece, as we know it today, has therefore existed since 1947.

March 25 is the Feast of the Annunciation. It marks the moment when the Archangel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would give birth to the Son of God. Since Jesus’ birth was set for December 25, his conception was naturally placed nine months earlier, on March 25.

For these two reasons, March 25 is a public holiday in Greece.

For patriots, Athens hosts a massive parade. Military personnel, dignitaries, parades of traditional costumes, military uniforms, and spectators all join in the general celebration. Military parades are also held throughout Greece.

Families gather around the traditional dish: Bakaliaros (cod). March 25 always falls during the period of Great Lent, when the faithful fast for nearly 40 days. No meat, no fish, no dairy products, and sometimes no olive oil! The church has made two exceptions: one on March 25 and the other on Palm Sunday, when only fish may be eaten.