St. George’s Day, or Đurđic, is a significant holiday celebrated by many Serbian Orthodox families. According to Christian teachings, Saint George is the first in the line of saintly warriors, armed with a shield and a cross-shaped sword.
Martyred in 303 AD for refusing to renounce his Christian faith, Saint George remains deeply revered in Serbian culture. He is celebrated twice a year: on November 16th (New Calendar), commemorating the transfer of his relics to Palestine, and on May 6th, marking the day of his martyrdom.
Đurđic is a special day filled with traditions and customs. On this day, women refrain from doing manual labor, and shoemakers and tailors take a break. It marks the beginning of the “Wolf Days” (Mratinci), a period that lasts until November 24th.
According to folk beliefs, winter arrives with Đurđic and departs with St. George’s Day in May. During this period, it is believed that certain activities, like hunting wolves, are forbidden.
By following these customs and honoring Saint George, Serbian families continue to uphold a rich cultural heritage that has been passed down through generations.
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Source: RTS Foto: Wikimedia Creative Commons