Observing an extraordinary number of graves in this cemetery, whereas the church is very small, I inquired the reason from Giovanni, and learned that it is the favourite place of burial with the principal families of Ioannina, with whom it is the fashion to deposit the mortal remains of their friends, out of sight, lest the mournful recollection of their loss should obtrude itself upon their minds when they go to divine worships at their own churches. The greatest part of these graves are decorated with a smaller stone or marble monument, in appearance like a square pilaster, surmounted by a cross; it is hollow within, having a little wooden door attached, and containing a lamp which is lighted on certain festivals, as well as on the anniversary of the deceased’s birth and death. This service is undertaken by a priest who is paid for his trouble by the family.
