On the Greek island of Chios, friends and neighbors take opposing sides of a massive rocket battle– each trying to take out the other’s church– while the more pious of the bunch are inside, partaking in ceremonies on the holiest of holy days.

Read about the traditional “rocket wars” that take place against two opposing villages— with the target, the bell tower of the other’s main church. In the meantime, have a look at some amazing photos from the centuries-old tradition.