Thousands of rockets filled the sky over Vrontados, Chios, on Saturday night as the island’s spectacular Easter tradition proceeded despite a week of legal tension and uncertainty.
The historic “Rocket War” (Rouketopolemos) between the rival parishes of Panagia Erithiani and Agios Markos drew large crowds of locals and tourists, including hundreds of visitors from Turkey and international media crews.
Preparations began early on Saturday evening, with test volleys fired after 9:00 p.m. Shortly before midnight, the sky erupted as thousands of handmade rockets were launched between the two churches, creating a pyrotechnic display that has become one of Greece’s most famous Easter sights.
The event’s future had been in doubt until the final hours. Earlier in the week, an accidental ignition at a rocket-making site resulted in injuries and led to the arrest of seven individuals. Three people faced the prosecutor on charges of violating fireworks laws and negligence, while four others remained in hospital with burns.
The arrests sparked protests, with Vrontados residents gathering outside the Chios Police Headquarters and the prosecutor’s office to support those detained.
Uncertainty was resolved late Saturday afternoon when a joint parade of the two rocket-making teams signalled that the event would go ahead. The parade was led by world-renowned Chios-born astrophysicist Stamatis Krimigis.
Local officials, including Chios Mayor Yannis Malafis and Tourism Bureau President Kostas Moundros, emphasised that their priority remains preserving the tradition while implementing stricter safety measures to reduce risk.
To ensure public safety during the event, scheduled pauses in the rocket fire were implemented to allow worshippers to enter and exit the two churches safely.