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Krstovdan: Orthodox Christians celebrate the Exaltation of the Holy Cross
Orthodox Christians celebrate the autumn Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, known in folk tradition as Krstovdan, on September 27. The holiday commemorates the finding of the Cross by Empress Helena in Jerusalem and its subsequent return to the city from Persia.
Religious observance involves strict fasting, with many believers consuming only bread and grapes. Liturgical services include the blessing of water, which is kept in homes for protection and health.
Folk traditions associated with the day include harvesting basil and observing weather signs to predict the coming winter. While some traditions suggest cleaning the home to prepare for the cold months, others caution against heavy labor on major religious holidays. The day serves as both a spiritual milestone and a cultural marker for seasonal transitions in many Balkan communities.
Entities
Constantine the Great · Emperor Heraclius · Empress Helena · Jerusalem · Patriarch Macarius · Prizren · Serbian Orthodox Church · Vozdviženje Časnog krsta