It is traditionally described as lasting for 40 days, representing the time Jesus was said to have spent in the desert leading up to his crucifixion and resurrection, according to the gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke.

During Lent, many Christians fast or give up certain luxuries as a form of penitence. Some Christians pledge to give up foods, such as chocolate, while others may give up an activity, such as watching television for a day a week.

It is a time for self-reflection and examination, and the idea is to live more simply and focus on God in the lead-up to Easter.

Christians from many different traditions celebrate Lent, and it starts and ends on different days in different denominations.

For Protestants, Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, which this year is February 10, and ends on Holy Saturday, this year March 26. This period is actually 46 days, however the six Sundays are excluded because there is no obligation to fast on Sundays in Lent.

In the Catholic Church, Lent starts on Ash Wednesday and ends on Holy Thursday, the Thursday before Easter Sunday.