TÉRENDEZE

Corresponding to Candlemas, this custom linked to the cult of fire and sun, which originated in paganism, was taken over by the Church, which fixed its celebration 40 days after Christmas. On the eve of Valentine's Day, Armenians have the sacred fire... especially in houses where there are newlyweds. They circle three times around a bonfire, which is supposed to make their union fruitful and ensure happiness and prosperity for their offspring and drive away evil spirits. If there are lovers among the guests, they jump over the fire, hand in hand, to purify themselves.