Students in Tillyria mark October 28 anniversary with fire tradition

Students in the Tillyria region of Cyprus continued a long-standing local tradition on October 27-28, 2026, by lighting a large, fiery representation of the word "OXI" (No) to commemorate the historic anniversary of October 28, 1940. This event honors the day Greece refused to surrender to fascist forces, serving as a symbolic act of resistance and national pride.

The initiative was publicly acknowledged by Nikos Kleanthous, the leader of the Kato Pyrgos community and chairman of the Tillyria communities cluster. In an official statement, Kleanthous emphasized that the custom has been preserved and passed down through generations, playing a vital role in maintaining the region’s collective identity and historical memory. He praised the students for their commitment to these values, describing the "OXI" as a timeless symbol that remains relevant in the modern era.

This annual tradition continues to be a cornerstone of regional cultural activities in Tillyria. Local officials continue to support the event as a means of transmitting patriotic values and historical awareness to the younger generation, ensuring that the legacy of the 1940 resistance remains active within the community.