Members:

Kastellorizian Association

of Victoria Inc, Australia

Kastellorizian Association > Culture

Culture

This section endeavours to provide information on our background and endeavours to illustrate the many cultural aspects, many iof which are still observed.

The Kastellorizian culture is a rich tapestry. In the early days it was famous for the traditions of its inhabitants. Beautiful, rich and magnificent was the women’s dress, of at least three different types. It was made with brilliantly coloured fabric, and several necklaces, brooches, pendants, earringswith ancient Venetian or Byzantines gold coins completed the dress.

The strict observance to customs and rituals by Kastellorizians continues today with many contemporary weddings, christenings  and funerals. These are all still very much about who we are and where we can originated from, no matter what country we now reside. We will continue to foster all the intrinsic items which make us so unique; the traditional wedding songs, Greek Easter – it’s significance and other tresaures that we can collect from our older gerations and families.

Our food is also an important part of who we are. Greek food is well-known as part of the Australian culture however Kazzie food can be different and include dishes and desserts that are not part of the normal Greek cuisine. Kazzie food, especially our sweets, can be rather unique. Katoumarie is a ‘labour of love’ and, although time-consuming in preparation, still a favourite today with some of our own committeee members expert in  maintaining the skill and technique. Moussaka, Patstitsio etc are recognised as Greek however often there are subtle variations to the recipes – we will provide this information in the Recipe section which will eventually, we hope, capture the food cooked by our motherss and grandmothers, so we can preserve these for future generations..

.