Newsroom
From schoolchildren marching through Nicosia to students spelling out “OXI” in flames in Tillyria, Cyprus marked Ochi Day on Wednesday with parades, church services and tributes to those who fought in World War II.
The public holiday commemorates Greece’s refusal to accept an Italian ultimatum on Oct. 28, 1940 — the “no,” or “oxi,” that became a symbol of resistance to fascism.
In Nicosia, President Nikos Christodoulides attended a service at Apostle Barnabas Cathedral led by Archbishop Georgios before taking the salute at the parade outside the Greek Embassy. School and university students, scouts, veterans’ groups and community organizations took part.
The celebrations also welcomed visitors from Greece, including the Lyceum of Greek Women of Kavala and a philharmonic band from Corfu. After the parade, Christodoulides congratulated participants, including representatives of displaced municipalities and communities, and linked the anniversary’s message to efforts to reunify Cyprus.
In Limassol, commemorations began early: church bells rang and bands took to the streets at 6 a.m., followed by a flag-raising ceremony at Grigoris Afxentiou Square. In Paphos, the morning included a church service, wreath-laying and calls for unity from government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis.
One of the day’s most striking images came from Tillyria, where students continued a tradition passed down through generations by forming the word “OXI” with fire. Local community leader Nikos Kleanthous praised the young participants for keeping the anniversary’s message alive.
See the images below:
