Saint Phanourios Cake

Yannis Constantinidis, “22 Dodecanesian Folk Songs and Dances, Book II”.

Yannis Constantinidis, also known as Kostas Yannidis (1903–1984), was an exceptionally gifted Greek composer, conductor, and pianist from Smyrna. He studied under Kurt Weill and other distinguished German academics. A remarkably versatile musician, he composed refined classical works —often inspired by Greek folk traditions— as well as charming operettas and immensely popular songs.

Every 27th of August, the Greek Orthodox tradition celebrates Saint Phanourios. A special cake (or pie), containing no eggs, milk, or butter, is customarily baked in many households to honour this holy figure, who is often associated with lost and found items. Saint Phanourios is also the protector of the island of Rhodes. Interestingly, my own recipe for this cake comes from an old handwritten notebook I stumbled upon in the trash —a little “lost and found” treasure in itself!

Yannis Constantinidis, “22 Dodecanesian Folk Songs and Dances, Book II”.

Yannis Constantinidis, also known as Kostas Yannidis (1903–1984), was an exceptionally gifted Greek composer, conductor, and pianist from Smyrna. He studied under Kurt Weill and other distinguished German academics. A remarkably versatile musician, he composed refined classical works —often inspired by Greek folk traditions— as well as charming operettas and immensely popular songs.

Classical, Ethnic, Greek, Jazz, OST, Soul