Lazarakia facts for kids
Lazarakia on a plate
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| Type | Sweet bread |
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| Place of origin | Greece and Cyprus |
| Main ingredients | Sweet spices |
Lazarákia (which means "Little Lazaruses" in Greek) are small, sweet breads. People in Greece and Cyprus make them. They are a special treat for Orthodox Christians on Lazarus Saturday. This Saturday marks the start of Holy Week, which leads up to Easter.
People eat Lazarakia to celebrate a famous story from the Bible. In this story, Jesus brings Lazarus back to life from the dead. The breads are shaped like a person wrapped in a cloth, like Lazarus was. They even have cloves for eyes!
What are Lazarakia?
Lazarakia are a type of sweet spice bread. They are made with different sweet spices. These breads are also a special "fasting" food for Lent. This means they do not have any dairy products or eggs.
Because they don't have eggs or butter, they get their shiny finish from olive oil. This is different from other sweet breads like tsourekia, which are often brushed with egg.
Why are Lazarakia made?
Lazarakia celebrate the miracle of Lazarus coming back to life. This story shows how life can win over death. Making these breads is a way to remember this important event.
In the past, women would often bake Lazarakia at home. They would shape the dough into little human figures. This was a symbol of life and hope.
Old traditions
There was a special tradition with Lazarakia. One of the little breads would be kept in the home for a whole year. The next year, it would either be eaten or thrown into the sea. People believed fish would then eat it.
Today, many people buy Lazarakia from bakeries. But the tradition of making and eating them on Lazarus Saturday is still very important. It helps people remember the story of Lazarus and the start of Holy Week.
See also
In Spanish: Lazarakia para niños
