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In Russia Honey Spas is celebrated on August 14. This is the day on which the honey is blessed. Honey Spas marks the beginning of honey harvest. According to common belief, it is the day when swallows leave for the winter. This is considered to be a sign that summer is leaving. Vacant swallow nests resemble honey combs. Swallows are the birds, that according to the myth tried to spare Christ from suffering on the cross for a long time, and cried that he is already dead. Spas means saviour. There are three holidays called Spas. Each of them is dedicated to one sacred part of the cross. August 14 is also the day on which according to the legend Russia was christened.

Natalia L. Rudychev