The singing of carols in Greece can be traced back to ancient times, though the word kalanta is thought to refer to the Latin word calends for the beginning of the month. With the spread of Christianity, the custom of caroling focused on the celebration of the birth of Christ, New Year’s and Epiphany which rounds out the 12 days of Christmas.
According to tradition, children go from door to door and ask if they can sing for each household. Once the permission is granted, the children sing with triangles as the main accompaniment. After the performance, the householder gives some sweets, traditional Christmas cookies or pastries to the children, though today, money is often given.
The English translation of the carols is as follows:
For Christmas:
Good evening noblemen
If this is your will,
Christ’s holy birth
May I sing in your noble house
Christ is being born today
In the town of Bethlehem
Heavens rejoice
All of nature is happy.
Inside the cave (He) is being born
In a manger for horses
The King of the heavens
The Creator of everything.
A crowd of angels are singing,
“Ossana in excelsis”,
And holly is
The faith of the shepherds.
From Persia three magi arrive
With their gifts
A bright star shows them the way
Without any delay.
In this house we have come
May no stone ever crack
And the landlord
May live for many years.
For the New Year:
First of the month and first of the year
My tall rosemary
Let our good year begin
Church with the holy throne
It is the beginning when Christ
Holy and spiritual
Will walk on earth
And cheer us up
St. Basil is on his way
And will not deign on us
From Kesaria
You’re a Lady milady
For Epiphany:
Today is the lights and the enlightment
The happiness is big and the sanctification
Down the Jordan River
Sits our Lady the Blessed Virgin Mary
She carries an organ, a candle she holds
And pleads with St. John.
St. John lord and Baptist
Baptize this divine child of mine
I shall ascend to the heavens
To gather roses and incense
Good day, good day
Good day to you master and the missus.
Read more here.
RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report
Photo Source: TNH
Source: thenationalherald.com
