Greek Orthodox Christians across Cyprus celebrate the Epiphany on the 6th of January every year, one of the most important days on the Greek Orthodox calendar.

The day began with a church service in Agios Georgios, where the priest blessed the water and the congregation. After the service, a procession was held down to the harbour. The priest then threw a cross into the water, and the young men dived in to retrieve it. The person who retrieves the cross is believed to have good luck for the rest of the year.

Epiphany celebrations in Paphos

History of Epiphany in Cyprus

The history of Epiphany in Cyprus dates back to the Byzantine era. The holiday was celebrated as the day when Jesus Christ was baptized and the Holy Trinity was revealed. The day was also significant as it marked the end of the Christmas season.

In Cyprus, the celebration of Epiphany is marked by a series of events. On the eve of Epiphany, a procession is held in which a wooden cross is carried through the streets. The cross is then placed in the sea, and young men dive into the water to retrieve it. The person who retrieves the cross is believed to have good luck for the year.

On the day of Epiphany, a religious service is held in churches across the country. The service is followed by a traditional feast, which includes a special bread called Vasilopita. The bread contains a hidden coin, and the person who finds the coin is said to have good luck for the year.

Epiphany is also celebrated with traditional music and dancing, and many people take the day off work to spend time with family and friends.

In conclusion, Epiphany is an important holiday in Cyprus and a great event to bring the family. Epiphany 2024 was blessed with beautiful weather, with even the ice-cream man making an appearance.

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