Most of Christians in Romania celebrated yesterday Boboteaza – the day when Jesus Christ was baptized in the Jordan River by John The Baptist.

Together with Saint John Day on the 7th of January, it symbolizes the end of the winter Christmas holidays.

During a special religious service called “Great Holy Water” the waters are blessed. These waters (called Agheazma) are said to maintain their freshness all year long and to have miraculous powers . People attend in great number the religious service and queue when it ends, to fill their bottles with the Agheazma .

Photos taken yesterday morning at Kretulescu Church in the Center of Bucharest

Taking a sip of holy water every morning, before eating, it is said to act like a talisman, protecting you from troubles, bringing peace of mind and soul.

Popular traditions also say that young people who are not married and put a twig of blessed basil, given by their priest, under their pillow, the night before Boboteaza, dream of their future spouse.

Find out more about Boboteaza traditions on Romania Simply Surprising.

Does your country celebrate Epiphany? Tell us about it in the comments.

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About the author

Carmen was born and raised in Bucharest, the city where she currently lives. She worked in the Sales Department of a radio station for 15 years. Along with some friends, Carmen recently founded a small company that deals with website development and online promotion. She loves English, listening to music, establishing connections and meeting new people and has a real passion for Ireland. Carmen is attracted by foreign cultures and she likes very much to travel (whenever it is possible!)