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The annual Anthestiria Festival also known as the Flower Festival took place on Sunday May 8 in Paphos. The traditional event which has a history spanning close to a century, sees locals taking part in a parade which uses fresh flowers to decorate floats and baskets.
Anthestiria is inspired by the ancient festival that was held in Athens in honor of Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility. Dionysus was the most delighted of the gods and the most beloved of the people, and for that reason, many Dionysian Feasts were held in his honour.
The event focuses on the Feast of the Anthysteria, related to the end of winter and the coming of spring, the cultivation of the earth, the new harvest and new beginnings.