Clean Monday is a significant day for the Greek Orthodox community, symbolizing the start of Lent, the longest fasting period leading to Easter. For seven weeks, or 48 days in total, believers refrain from meat, fish, dairy, eggs, oil, and wine to purify their bodies and minds in preparation for the resurrection on Easter. Thus, Clean Monday is not only a transition from the festivities of the Apokries (Carnival) to the solemnity of Lent but also represents a unique mix of customs, influenced by ancient pagan springtime celebrations.

Traditionally, Clean Monday is characterized by communal gatherings and feasting, emphasizing the enjoyment of specific foods that comply with fasting rules, particularly seafood. The customs surrounding this day have evolved, often reflecting a joyous farewell to indulgence before the upcoming period of restraint. Seafood, along with various vegetable dishes, is highlighted, making it central to the celebratory meals that families share as part of this cultural practice.

Furthermore, the article notes that the changing nature of the Varvakios marketplace, a historical hub for seafood in Athens, is influencing how these traditions are executed, suggesting a modernization or adaptation to contemporary tastes while maintaining the essence of Clean Monday's significance. It invites readers to embrace both the culinary and cultural richness that Clean Monday brings, serving as a reminder of the community's values and practices in the midst of changing times.