The Moldovans will go to the cemetery with painted eggs, Easter bread and cakes to remember the dead during the next two days. “As those who are alive celebrate Easter, the deceased also deserve an Easter,” ethnographer Maria Ciocanu has told IPN. The gifts in memory of the dead can be different, but should be given with a burning candle.
In some settlements of Moldova, Low Sunday is celebrated on Sunday, but in most of the settlements the people go the cemeteries on Monday, one week after Easter. Low Sunday is an old folk holiday observed by other peoples too. It signifies the connection between the living people and those who are dead. According to tradition, the shells of painted eggs must be thrown on running water so that they reach the dead and inform them that Easter has come. They say that the dead can influence the lives of people and can bring disease, heavy rain or drought if they are not commemorated. If it rains on Low Sunday, they say that it is the dead crying.
Maria Ciocanu also said that they go to the cemetery not necessarily dressed in sober clothes, but the clothing should be appropriate for the occasion. The dazzling colors are not welcome. “Some want to make themselves noticed. They come to the cemetery by luxury cars and bring expensive presents to boast. This is not in accordance with the popular tradition,” stated the ethnographer.
In some of the villages, after returning from the cemetery, the people take a meal together with the relatives to remember the dead. There are also foods that are offered as presents on the table.
