Rouketopolemos in Chios: The Wild Rocket War in Greece

A Tradition of Fire: Chios Island's Stunning Rouketopolemos Festival

High above the Aegean, on the tranquil Greek island of Chios, an ancient battle erupts into the night sky every Easter Sunday. But this isn't a clash of swords or a historical reenactment—it's Rouketopolemos, or "rocket war," a centuries-old spectacle that transforms the peaceful village of Vrontados into a fiery battleground of celebration, tradition, and sheer adrenaline.

Each year, tens of thousands of homemade rockets blaze through the air between two hillside churches—Agios Markos (Saint Mark's) and Panagia Ereithiani—in a spectacular show of devotion and rivalry unlike anything else on Earth.

What is Rouketopolemos?

Rouketopolemos (pronounced roo-keh-toh-POH-leh-mos) literally means “rocket war” in Greek. The name says it all: each Easter, two rival parishes of Vrontados launch homemade rockets at one another’s church bell towers in a symbolic contest of precision, pride, and pyrotechnic prowess. The goal? Hit the opposing church’s bell—more times than they hit yours.

While it may seem chaotic or even reckless to outsiders, this is a deeply rooted tradition that dates back to at least the 19th century, though many locals insist its origins are older still, possibly reaching back to the time of Ottoman occupation.

How Does the Battle Work?

The churches sit just 400 meters apart, perched on opposing hills with the village nestled in the valley below. In the weeks leading up to Easter, residents and volunteers prepare thousands of handmade rockets—constructed from wooden sticks, gunpowder, and a touch of local engineering magic.

On Holy Saturday night, just as the Easter Resurrection service begins, the air begins to hum with tension. Midnight approaches. The lights dim. And then—liftoff.

Thousands of rockets are fired in synchronized volleys toward the opposing church. It’s not just random chaos, either; both parishes aim carefully for the belfry, trying to ring the other side’s bell through a direct hit. The official count of hits is…well, let’s just say both sides tend to declare victory, leading to a rematch next year.

Is it Safe (and Legal)?

Here’s where things get interesting. Technically, Rouketopolemos has a complicated relationship with the law. While it's often described as illegal due to the use of unregulated fireworks, it is also tacitly supported and coordinated with local authorities.

Each year, firefighting crews are on standby, buildings are armored with protective mesh and metal sheeting, and emergency measures are in place. Residents board up their homes and churches with plywood and fencing. It’s organized chaos—yes—but chaos with a carefully honed routine.

Despite these precautions, minor injuries and property damage have occurred in past years. In 2016, the festival was briefly canceled due to safety concerns but returned the following year with new restrictions, including limits on the number of rockets (which once reached over 150,000 in a single night!).

Why Do They Do It?

Like many ancient customs, Rouketopolemos blends faith, folklore, and community spirit. Local legend says that the original fireworks were used to deter Ottoman ships during the Greek War of Independence. Others believe it's simply a creative expression of religious passion.

For the people of Chios, it’s more than a spectacle—it's a matter of identity. Generations grow up watching or participating in the rocket war, crafting rockets by hand, and passing down the techniques and traditions. It’s a bold way of saying: this is who we are.

The Vrontados Experience: What It's Like to Be There

To witness Rouketopolemos in person is to feel your heart in your throat for an hour straight—and love every second of it. Locals recommend wearing earplugs, sturdy clothing, and protective glasses (yes, seriously). Most spectators gather at a safe distance or from balconies overlooking the valley, where they can see the crisscrossing firestorms light up the night.

As the rockets scream overhead and the churches glow in the firelight, chants from the Easter liturgy echo in the background. It’s an unforgettable fusion of faith and fury, devotion and danger.

Pro tip: Book accommodations early—this event draws thousands of visitors from around the world. Many locals open their homes or balconies to travelers seeking the perfect view. And don’t expect a quiet night; the rockets keep coming long after midnight.

Controversy and Culture

While Rouketopolemos is a point of pride for many in Vrontados, it’s not without its critics. Some residents have pushed for tighter regulations or even a more symbolic version of the event due to property damage and the risk of fire. And as wildfires become a growing concern in Greece, environmental safety is under scrutiny.

Still, the event persists—because to cancel it would be to erase a living piece of cultural heritage. For now, the rocket war continues, lighting up the skies and firing up the island’s soul.

When to Go and How to Plan

Greek Orthodox Easter doesn’t always align with Western Easter, so be sure to check the Greek Orthodox calendar. In 2025, Orthodox Easter falls on April 20th—which means Rouketopolemos will light up the skies the night before, on April 19th.

Getting to Chios is easy via ferry from Piraeus (Athens) or a quick domestic flight. Once on the island, Vrontados is just a short drive from the main town of Chios.

Whether you’re a culture junkie, a pyrotechnic enthusiast, or simply craving a one-of-a-kind island adventure, Easter in Chios delivers a bang for your buck like no other.‍