Video. Orthodox faithful in Greece swim to retrieve the cross on Epiphany

Epiphany, celebrated every 6 January, marks the baptism of Jesus Christ and is a public holiday in Greece. In the Blessing of the Waters ceremony, swimmers dive to retrieve a floating cross, a symbolic act believed to bring good fortune and protection from evil spirits.

The victorious participant receives the cross, and others who dove with him also get medals as mementos. While Epiphany marks the end of the Christmas season in many Christian traditions, it is also observed as Three Kings Day in Western Christianity.

However, Orthodox Christian churches may celebrate on different dates, with some observing it on 19 January due to variations in calendars.