It was accompanied by religious ceremonies.

Waiting for the sacred hour of sunrise, the leader of the host, as the first rays appeared, poured a libation from a golden goblet into the sea, and prayed to Mithra that he might effect the conquest of Europe.

As he prayed he cast into the sea the golden goblet, and with it a golden bowl and a short Persian sword.

Meanwhile the multitude strewed all the bridge with myrtle boughs, and perfumed it with clouds of incense.

The "Immortals" crossed first, wearing garlands on their heads.