Good Thursday – The Last Supper in Greek Orthodox Tradition

Good Thursday, also known as Maundy Thursday, is a significant day in the Christian faith that marks the beginning of the Easter Triduum. It is observed on the Thursday before Easter Sunday, which falls on the first full moon following the vernal equinox.

The name “Maundy” is derived from the Latin word “mandatum,” which means commandment. This refers to the commandment that Jesus gave to his disciples during the Last Supper, to love one another as he had loved them.

Good Thursday is traditionally a day of reflection, as Christians around the world commemorate the events of the Last Supper. This was the final meal that Jesus shared with his disciples before his crucifixion, and during this meal, he instituted the sacrament of Holy Communion, which is still practiced by Christians today.

One of the most significant events that occurred on Good Thursday was the washing of the disciples’ feet by Jesus. This act of humility and service was meant to demonstrate the importance of loving and serving one another, and it has been commemorated by many churches through the centuries through the ritual of the washing of the feet.

Another important event that occurred on Good Thursday was the betrayal of Jesus by one of his own disciples, Judas Iscariot. Judas had agreed to betray Jesus to the religious authorities in exchange for thirty pieces of silver, and this act ultimately led to Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion.

Despite the somber events that occurred on Good Thursday, it is still considered a “good” day because it marks the beginning of the Easter Triduum, which culminates in the celebration of Easter Sunday. For Christians, Easter is a time of hope and renewal, as they celebrate the resurrection of Jesus and the promise of eternal life.

Overall, Good Thursday is a day for Christians to reflect on the teachings and example of Jesus, and to remember the sacrifice that he made for all humanity. It is a time to renew their commitment to loving and serving one another, and to look forward to the hope and promise of Easter.

Visiting Meteora During Holy Week

Experiencing Meteora during Orthodox Holy Week is one of the most moving and spiritually immersive journeys you can make in Greece. As the rock-top monasteries become centers of sacred observance, the atmosphere is filled with chanting, candlelight, and ancient rituals that have endured for centuries.

This guide will help you plan a respectful, meaningful, and unforgettable visit during this sacred time.

📅 When Is Holy Week in Meteora?

Orthodox Holy Week typically occurs in April or early May, depending on the year’s Easter calendar. The most important dates for visitors include:

• Holy Thursday (Megali Pempti) – Commemorates the Last Supper and the betrayal of Christ

• Holy Friday (Megali Paraskevi) – The most solemn day, with evening Epitaphios processions

• Holy Saturday (Anastasi) – Midnight Resurrection service

• Easter Sunday – Celebratory liturgy and traditional feasts

💡 Tip: Plan your visit between Holy Thursday and Easter Sunday to witness the most profound ceremonies.

🕯️ Monastic Traditions You Can Witness

• Evening Liturgies in dimly lit chapels, filled with incense and Byzantine hymns

• The Twelve Gospels Reading on Holy Thursday night

• Epitaphios Processions on Good Friday — each monastery and village has its own

• Midnight “Anastasi” Service on Holy Saturday — where the priest proclaims “Christos Anesti” and candles light up the night

✨ Note: Arrive early. These services draw both locals and pilgrims, and seating is limited.

👗 Dress Code and Etiquette

To attend services or enter monasteries during Holy Week:

• Wear modest, respectful clothing:

  • Women: Long skirts, covered shoulders

  • Men: Long pants, sleeved shirts

• Remain quiet and refrain from flash photography or using phones

• Follow the lead of locals during processions and candle ceremonies

🔇 Be reverent: Holy Week is not a tourist show — it’s a living tradition of deep faith.

🚗 Where to Stay

• Kastraki – Offers a more serene village feel, walking distance to monasteries

• Kalambaka – Central and convenient for transport connections

Book early — Holy Week accommodations fill up fast.

✅ See our guide: Where to Stay in Meteora

🧭 Combine with a Guided Tour

To enhance your visit:

• Book a private sunset tour aligned with liturgy times

• Take a Holy Week-focused experience with storytelling from a local Orthodox guide

👉 Explore:

• Meteora Private Tours

🙏 Final Advice

Holy Week in Meteora is not just a destination — it’s a pilgrimage of the soul.
Whether you’re deeply religious or culturally curious, you’ll leave with a sense of wonder, peace, and reverence for centuries-old Orthodox traditions.

FAQ for the Holy Week

Q: What is the difference between Good Thursday and Holy Thursday?
They are the same. In Greek Orthodox tradition, the day is called “Μεγάλη Πέμπτη” (Megali Pempti) — meaning “Great Thursday.”

Q: Can visitors attend services at the monasteries?
Yes, but modest clothing and respectful silence are essential. Evening liturgies can be long but deeply moving.

Q: Are tours available during Holy Week?
Yes. Our private and group tours can be scheduled around services and include context from local guides.