The worship of Saint Tryphon in Malevizi

The memory of Saint Tryphon is commemorated on February 1st, which has been established in traditional worship as the patron saint of viticulturists. Saint Tryphon protects the fields from rodents, caterpillars and other insects. In fact, during the time of consecration in the churches (for the Saint’s blessing), many insects and reptiles responsible for the destruction of agricultural production are listed. On Saint Tryphon’s icon, during the litany, the faithful pilgrims hang a necklace made with caterpillars and say that the goal will have been achieved by the time they die.

In the old days, Malevizi, an area with flourishing viticulture and abundant horticulture, worshipped Saint Tryphon in a particular way. In villages such as Krousonas and Tylissos, families did not set the table without surrounding it with products made from the vine’s fruit on the day of the Saint's celebration. Also, on this day, they used to eat raisin bread, pan-fried molasses pies, and grape must cookies while drinking plenty of wine.

(Information from Nikos Psilakis’ book, "Folk Rituals in Crete - Customs in the Cycle of Time", "KARMANOR" publications, 2005).