Cypriots Dive into the Sea for Traditional Epiphany Cross Retrieval

Sun Jan 07 2024
icon-facebook icon-twitter icon-whatsapp

LATCHI, Cyprus: In the coastal town of Latchi, Cypriots eagerly participated in the annual Blessing of the Waters tradition, a cherished ritual marking the day of Epiphany in the Greek Orthodox faith.

During the ceremony, a Greek Orthodox priest tossed a cross into the sea, symbolizing the christening of Jesus Christ by John the Baptist over 2,000 years ago in the Jordan River.

Epiphany holds profound significance for Eastern Christians, and the retrieval of the cross from the waters has become a spirited race for locals, adding a dynamic and festive element to the celebration.

icon-facebook icon-twitter icon-whatsapp