Across Russia and much of Eastern Europe, Orthodox believers submerged themselves in sub-zero temperatures on Tuesday to mark Epiphany, which commemorates the baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan.
While some Russian regions have temporarily banned the ritual, which sees worshippers throwing themselves into barrels, pools and holes cut in icy lakes or rivers, over coronavirus fears, most have made exceptions for the mass gatherings. In Moscow, for example, more than 220 bathing spots were prepared, with around 10,000 car parking spaces set up to allow visitors easy access. Temperatures in the capital have been around -12 degrees Celsius (10 degrees Fahrenheit) or even colder.
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