Read about the origin, history and celebration of Easter (Paşti) in Romania.
Fundoo Times: Festivals: Easter: Easter in Romania

Easter in Romania

Origin and History of Easter in Romania

Romania is a secular state situated at the crossroads of central and southeastern Europe. Though it is a secular nation, but the dominant religion that is followed by more than 85% population is Christianity. The Romanians follow the Eastern Orthodox Church in regard to their rituals and festivals. Just like other orthodox countries, Romania believes that Jesus was born during the winter solstice and his resurrection happened during the spring equinox. Hence, Easter in Romania is a holy sign of the abundant season of spring. Easter marks the end of the long fasting season of sacrifice, termed as Lent. One of the most important elements of Easter is the Easter Bunny that is worshipped here since pagan times as a symbol of fertility. During Romanian Easter, you can see a wave of elation and liveliness, marked by beautifully designed and painted Easter eggs, along with various other traditional customs. Easter is the most important festival Romanians and is preceded by numerous preparations and rituals.

Local name: Paşti

Ways to celeberate Paşti in Romania

Easter celebrations witness a slightly different kind of zeal and festivity in Romania. Celebrations begin with Lazarus’ Saturday (Flowers Saturday) which is followed by Palm Day, also referred to as Flowers Day, Great Thursday, and Great Friday. On Flowers Day, prayers are offered to Roman Goddess Flora, which is signified by presenting willows in the holy service. On Great Thursday, people clean their houses and stay back for the entire holiday season. Romanian ladies buy or sew new clothes for their families to wear on Easter. One of the remarkable traditions of Romanian Easter is painting eggs; women paint eggs in different attractive colors and intricate designs. The best thing about these painted eggs is that each egg is different and narrates a story through its exotic designs. The Easter feast boasts of a myriad of exquisite and traditional delicacies, such as Pasca (Easter cake) which is baked on Easter Eve, Cozonaci (a variation of sweet bread), lamb haggis, steaks, and meat pies.