Holy Icons of the Mother of God on Mount Athos. Part I
As you probably know, Mount Athos is not only a renowned Greek mountain but also one of the most important centers of Eastern Orthodox monasticism in the world. Being a self-governing and semi-autonomous monastic state, it is currently home to twenty monasteries that possess some of the most significant Eastern Orthodox icons, Byzantine holy icons, and other examples of religious icon art.
It is also worth noting that not everyone can visit Mount Athos and its famous monasteries. First of all, only males are allowed entrance. Secondly, the number of visitors is restricted, and you should have a special entrance permit. However, you can always take a look at this important spiritual place and get acquainted with some of the most venerated Orthodox Christian icons preserved on Mount Athos thanks to the Internet. The following list of the holy icons of the Mother of God will help you with that!
Holy icons of the Mother of God
- Icon of the Iver Mother of God
Icon of the Iver Mother of God, or as it is also called Panagia Portaitissa, is believed to be painted in the 1st century by St. Luke, the writer of the Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles, which makes it one of the most significant antique icons on Mount Athos. It is preserved in the Monastery of Iviron.
- Icon of the Mother of God “Axion Estin”
Another important example of holy icons on Mount Athos is the miracle-working icon of the Mother of God “Axion Estin (Worthy is).” It is preserved in the ancient Church of the Protaton in Karyes, dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary.
- Icon of the Mother of God “Quick to Hear”
The antique icon of the Mother of God “Quick to Hear,” which is considered to be painted in the 10th century, is preserved in the Dochiariou monastery, one of the most beautiful and elegant monasteries of the Holy Mountain (see photo at the top of the post). It is also considered miracle-working.
- Icon of the Mother of God “Panagia Gerontissa”
Icon of the Mother of God “Panagia Gerontissa,” meaning “the Abbess” or “the Elderess,” is a silver-covered miraculous antique icon depicting the Theotokos full-length. It is currently kept in the renowned Pantokratoros monastery.
Keep reading our blog to learn more about amazing holy icons of the Mother of God and other exceptional examples of religious icon art preserved on Mount Athos!