January 1st is an important date in both Greece and Cyprus because it is not only the first day of the New Year but it is also Saint Basil’s Day.
Politics of the Republic of Cyprus takes place in a framework of a presidential representative democratic republic, whereby the President of Cyprus is both head of state and head of government, and of a multi-party system. Executive power is exercised by the government. Legislative power is vested in both the government and the House of Representatives.
Easter is considered to be the greatest festival in the Orthodox Christian religion. The Resurrection of Christ in particular, known as 'Lambri' in the Cypriot dialect, is celebrated with splendour. On the island of Cyprus, the feeling of devoutness during the Holy Week is combined with Easter customs which lend the festival another dimension.