There are various theories on the origin of the Hidrellez, according to the Culture and Tourism Ministry website.
While some asserting it originated in the Mesopotamian and Anatolian cultures, others claim that the seasonal festival has its roots in the pre-Islamic Central Asian Turkic culture and belief.
It is believed that Hidrellez is the day when prophet Ilyas (Elijah) and Hizir (al-Khidr), a major spiritual figure, who are affiliated with the elements of land, water, fire and earth -- meet on earth.
It is also believed that Hizir and Ilyas are able to meet all the demands of the people, so they write their wishes on a paper and throw them to a sea or river.
Hidrellez has been added to the UNESCO list of "intangible cultural heritage" in 2017.
