Alpha News

Theophany Celebrations Held with Grandeur Across Cyprus

Published January 6, 2026, 19:13

Theophany celebrations took place today across Cyprus with splendor and large public participation. Paphos was the focal point of the events, where Archbishop Georgios officiated the blessing of the waters at the harbor, attended by the President of the Republic and his family. A large crowd of believers witnessed the immersion of the Holy Cross, with many brave individuals diving to retrieve it and receive the Archbishop's blessing. Similar events were held in Ayia Napa, where Metropolitan Basil of Constantia performed the blessing of the waters. The initial throw of the cross was unsuccessful as it was lost underwater, but a second throw with a wooden cross followed, which was recovered and handed over to the Metropolitan. All participants in the dive received silver crosses. In the Municipality of Paralimni, the blessing of the waters ceremony was held for the first time at the Paralimni Marina, aided by good weather. In the capital, celebrations focused on the Lake of Saint George Athalasas Park, following a Divine Liturgy at the Church of Saint Barbara in Platy Aglantzia. However, the celebrations in Limassol were marked by an unexpected incident. The cross thrown into the water by the priest was lost, and the person who last held it disappeared while attempting to return it to the priest. Police were called to the scene to investigate the incident. The report was covered by Nasia Ioannou.