Wrestling (Pali)

In Pteria, on the feast of Zoodochos Pigi (Life-Giving Spring), you will witness a truly unique tradition. Men from the village take part in traditional wrestling matches in front of the church, following customs rooted in the mountain traditions of Pontus. The bouts are held using age-old techniques, as each wrestler tries to bring his opponent to the ground. The winner is awarded a calf, a symbol of strength and endurance. The celebrations continue with the well-known egg fights, filling the atmosphere with joy and festive spirit, and carrying on a tradition that has been preserved for generations.