Historical information

The wedding of Diamando and Yianni Raftopoulos (Bourlotos)which took place on the island of Ithaca. Kalypso Sofianos (nee Raftopoulos) can be seen standing between the priest and the bridegroom.

Significance

The Greek Orthodox wedding is filled with symbolism. The stefana or wedding crowns, joined by a ribbon, symbolize the unity of the couple. The crowning ceremony establishes the couple as the King and Queen of their home, which they rule with wisdom, justice, and integrity. The stefana also denote the crown of martyrdom, since every true marriage involves self-sacrifice on both sides.

Physical description

A faded black and white photograph of a Greek wedding. The young boy in the foreground is carrying candles and the wedding crowns that will be worn by the bride and groom during the wedding ceremony and the candles. The priest and the bride and possibly the groom or bride's father are standing behind the young boy.