FLASH NEWS
The “Maundy Thursday” of Easter egg painting, what is its meaning and tradition?
2026-04-09 10:32:43 / JETË
As the Easter holiday approaches, one of the most important traditions preserved in Albanian families is painting eggs red, a ritual with deep religious and cultural symbolism.
According to tradition, eggs are dyed at two main moments. On "Maundy Thursday", families dye a portion of the eggs, dedicating one to each family member, to close people, as well as one egg for the house, which is kept for a full year until the next Easter. On "Maundy Saturday", eggs are dyed again, this time in larger quantities for family consumption and to be given as gifts.
The eggs are washed well and boiled over low heat so as not to damage them. In the meantime, a mixture of lukewarm water, vinegar and food coloring is prepared. The boiled eggs are placed in this solution for a few minutes until they take on the characteristic red color. Finally, they are lightly coated with oil to give them shine.
But beyond the practical aspect, this tradition carries a deep symbolic meaning. The egg represents life and resurrection, while the color red symbolizes Christ's sacrifice and the victory of life over death. The eggshell is seen as a symbol of Christ's tomb, which was opened to give life.
At the same time, a well-known legend about Mary Magdalene is preserved in the church tradition. According to her, after the resurrection of Christ, she went to Pontius Pilate to tell him the news, giving him a basket of white eggs. He doubted the event and said that as long as eggs can turn red, Christ must have been resurrected. At that moment, according to the legend, the eggs immediately turned red.
Happening now...
ideas
top
Alfa recipes
services
- POLICE129
- STREET POLICE126
- AMBULANCE112
- FIREFIGHTER128