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The Miraculous Icon Virgin Mary of Passion - Amolyntos

The origin of the name of the Virgin Mary The name of the Virgin Mary, ‘Immaculate’, in Greek ‘Amolyntos’, originates from the hymn of the Compline "Spotless, undefiled, immaculate, unstained, pure Virgin, Lady..." composed by Monk Paul of the Holy Monastery of Evergetis in Constantinople. The Virgin Mary is also called "Our Lady of Passion" as she holds Jesus Christ in her arms and the Archangels, Gabriel and Michael, stand on both sides bearing the symbols of the Passion: the Cross, the Lance and the Sponge. Find here: Ιcons with the Virgin Mary of Passion. What the icon of the Virgin Mary of Passion depicts Our Lady of Passion holds Jesus Christ on her left side, with her left hand supporting His bare and kneeling feet. The two Archangels with the symbols of the Passion Jesus Christ holds tightly His mother's hand with both of His hands, gazing towards the Archangel Gabriel. The Archangel Gabriel reveals the main symbols of the Passion: the Cross of His future sacrifice and the Crown of His persiflage. Above the shoulder of the Virgin Mary, the Archangel Michael is depicted holding the Lance, the Sponge, and the Vessel containing gall and vinegar. Find here: Orthodox Icons with Virgin Mary of Passion The inscription from the 15th century In the holy icon of Our Lady of Passion, beneath the Archangel Michael, the title "Amolyntos" is depicted, while beneath the Archangel Gabriel, the inscription from the mid-15th century is noted. “Ο ΤΟ ΧΑΙΡΕ ΠΡΙΝ ΤΗ ΠΑΝΑΓΝΩ ΜΗΝΥΣΑΣ ΣΥΜΒΟΛΑ ΝΥΝ ΤΟΥ ΠΑΘΟΥΣ ΠΡΟΔΕΙΚΝΥΗ - ΧΡΙΣΤΟΣ ΔΕ ΘΝΗΤΗΝ ΣΑΡΚΑ ΕΝΔΕΔΥΜΕΝΟΣ ΠΟΤΜΟΝ ΔΕΔΟΙΚΟΣ ΔΕΙΛΙΑ ΤΑΥΤΑ ΒΛΕΠΩΝ”. Who is the creator of the icon It is worth noting that the original icon of Our Lady of Passion is attributed to the great Cretan painter of the 15th century, Andreas Ritzos. The works of Andreas Ritzos are displayed both in Italy and on the island of Patmos in Greece. Where the icon of Our Lady of Passion is located Today, the icon of Our Lady of Passion is exhibited at the Byzantine Museum in Athens. Find here: Hand Painted Byzantine Icon from Mount Athos with the Virgin Mary of Passion.

Mother of God the Inexhaustible Chalice

Our Lady, Protector of Those Dependent on Alcohol and Substances The icon of the Virgin Mary known as the «Inexhaustible Cup of Life» became known in the Orthodox world in 1878. It depicts the Mother of God with outstretched arms and Jesus Christ, as infant, standing within the Holy Chalice. How did the icon of the «Inexhaustible Chalice» became known The miraculous icon of Our Lady resided for many years in a province in Russia, but it was not yet known by the name «Inexhaustible Cup of Life». A remarkable event changed the course of this holy icon and revealed its Divine grace. In the Efremovskaya district of the Tula province in Russia, a retired soldier named Stefan, lived there. This man suffered from the vice of drinking alcohol. His dependence on alcohol led him to squander all his possessions and fall into a pitiable condition. However, one night Stefan had an extraordinarily unusual dream that deeply shook him. The sign that led to the icon of Our Lady At one point, a monk with imposing form appeared in his dream and said the following words: «Go to the city of Serpukhov, to the Monastery of Our Lady. There you will find Her icon called the 'Inexhaustible Cup'. Pray in front of it and your body and soul will be cured immediately». However, the man was reluctant and did not heed these words. The following night, the monk appeared again in his sleep insisting that he make the journey to venerate the icon. After the third appearance of the monk, Stefan decided to obey the command and embark on the journey, despite his legs being weak due to paralysis. Thus, with great difficulty because of the condition of his legs, Stefan began his route to the city of Serpukhov. Find here: icons of the Virgin Mary «The Inexhaustible Cup of Life». The Unknown Icon of the Virgin Mary When he arrived at the «Monastery of Vladychny», he asked to venerate the icon of the Virgin Mary «The Inexhaustible Cup», as he had been commanded. To his great surprise, however, no one knew this icon of the Virgin Mary by that name. Then, one of the monks mentioned that the icon that Stefan was seeking, might be the one depicting the Virgin Mary with Jesus Christ inside the Holy Grail. This icon was placed in the shrine of the corridor that was leading from the Temple to the sacristy. Everyone was amazed when they read the inscription "The Inexhaustible Cup" on the back of the icon. After this event, something even more remarkable happened. Stefan recognized the monk, who appeared to him in his dream, in the person of one of the two founders of the Monastery, Saint Barlaam. The Healing from the Vice of Alcoholism Stefan, who until then had been paralyzed and addicted to alcohol, returned from Serpukhov completely healed! Moreover, he no longer had any inclination towards the harmful habit of drunkenness. The miraculous healing of Stefan from alcohol became the reason that more and more people from distant places came to worship the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, the Inexhaustible Cup of Life. What the Virgin Mary "The Inexhaustible Cup" protects After this miracle, a large number of people that were facing problems of addiction to alcohol, smoking, or hallucinogens, prayed to the holy icon of the Virgin Mary «The Inexhaustible Chalice». The faithful sought healing from their addictions and expressed their gratitude to the Theotokos. Due to the countless miracles associated with the cure of addicted individuals, the miraculous icon of the Ever-Virgin Mary is considered a patron and helper of those who are dependent on alcohol and substances in general. Find here: Maktro with the Inexhaustible Chalice The disappearance of the icon "The Inexhaustible Cup" In 1919, the monastery of the Virgin Mary in the city of Serpukhov was closed by the Communists and the entire complex, including the temples, changed its use. At that time, the holy icon of the Theotokos was relocated and placed in the Cathedral of Saint. Nicholas in Serpukhov. During the years 1928-1930, there was an attempt to revive the celebration of the miraculous icon of the Theotokos, which had been interrupted due to persecutions. Following the demand of the Christians, the Metropolitan of the city, named Emmanuel, blessed 8 copies of the icon. Around 1929, however, the atheists managed to close the Cathedral of St. Nicholas and everything inside was burned on the banks of the Nara River. Both the icon of the Virgin Mary «The Inexhaustible Cup» and its blessed copies disappeared, causing all worship ceremonies in honor of this specific icon to cease. When the Inexhaustible Cup of Life celebrates In 1990, Archimandrite Joseph restored the destroyed Visotsky Monastery in Serpukhov. Gradually, devotion and honor toward the holy icon of the Virgin Mary «The Inexhaustible Cup of Life» began to revive. The Virgin Mary is honored on May 5th and worship ceremonies in her honor continue to be held at the Monastery to this day.

Virgin Mary of Consolation - Great Byzantine Church in Arta

The Virgin Mary of Consolation is the most important and renowned Byzantine church in the prefecture of Arta, Epirus, Greece. It was built in the 13th century by Nikephoros I Komnenos Doukas, during the peak of the Despotate of Epirus. Architectural Innovation and Byzantine art The church is dedicated to the Annunciation of the Theotokos, and evidence show that in the 16th century, it served as the catholikon of a women's monastery. Additionally, a distinguishing feature of the church, which renders it a masterpiece of Byzantine art, is its' dome that is like hanging from the sky. To this day, it maintains its uniqueness and innovation, while it impresses and astonishes with its rich interior, which consists of ornate sculptures, frescoes and mosaics. The Miraculous Icon of Panagia Parigoritissa Within the church resides the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary of Consolation (Parigoritissa in Greek). It is placed in a wooden shrine on the iconostasis of the church and serves as the principal worshiping icon in the sanctuary. Find here: icon with Panagia of Consolation. The holy icon of the Theotokos of Consolation is a variation of the Eleousa icon type. It combines elements from the Virgin Eleousa, such as the reversed foot of Jesus Christ and the restrained melancholy of the Virgin Mary of Passion of Jesus Christ.

Virgin Kykkou - Images from the Monastery in Cyprus

The miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary of Kykkos is the work of the Evangelist Luke and stands as one of the paramount pilgrimages of Cyprus and the entire Orthodoxy. How the Virgin Mary of Kykkos took her name The name of the Virgin of Kykkos derives from the Kykkos Monastery, to which she belongs today. The Patriarchal Stavropegic Monastery is situated on the western side of the Troodos mountain range, 18 kilometers from Mount Olympus, at an elevation of 1200 meters. The Kykkos Monastery serves as the "Residence" of the Virgin Mary of Kykkotissa, whose presence is felt through her numerous miracles. The story behind the miraculous icon of the Virgin of Kykkos According to tradition, around 1100 AD the Byzantine Commander of Cyprus, Ruler Manuel Boutoumites or Butumites (Greek: Μανουὴλ Βουτουμίτης, fl. 1086–1112) went for hunting but was lost in the Troodos forests. After wandering for a long time, he met an old hermit, named Isaiah. The hermit who shunned everything worldly, practiced strictly in unceasing prayer and did not allow anyone to spoil his contact with the Lord, even if he was the local ruler. This attitude of Isaias seemed disrespectful to Manuel Voutomitis, as a result of which he severely punished him. The return to Cyprus and the illness Then, Boutoumites found his way and returned to Nicosia, where he fell severely ill. Therefore, he considered that his illness was a result of the punishment to the old ascetic Isaiah and ordered his servants to find him, so that he could ask for his forgiveness. When they led him in front of him, Boutoumites apologized with humility to the elderly monk. Then, in response, Isaiah prayed for the lord's healing. Soon, Boutoumites felt better and promised to Isaiah that he would give him whatever he would ask for. Isaiah asked as a favor that the Theotokos icon of the Evangelist Luke be transferred from Constantinople to Cyprus. Find here icons of the Evangelist Luke. The Byzantine governor hesitated, fearing it would be impossible to convince the emperor of Byzantium Alexios Komninos to grant the Holy icon of Theotokos that was kept in the palace. However, Boutoumites departed for Constantinople with the old hermit. Upon meeting King Alexios, they requested the icon of the Virgin of Kykkos, but he firmly refused. After this event, the governor’s only daughter fell severely ill with the same illness that Boutoumites was affected. The hermit Isaiah, after a fervent request from the emperor, healed his daughter. In light of this event, King Alexios decided to donate the sacred icon of the Virgin of Kykkos, yet his hesitations prevented him once again. At that point, Boutoumites and Isaiah explained to the emperor that it was God's will to bring the Holy Icon to the Troodos Mountains. He considered this apostolic icon to be a great heirloom, thus it was unbearable for him to part with it. Only when he was hit by the same sickness, he realized that it was a divine commandment to give the icon. In fact, he not only handed over the holy icon, but also gave the money needed to build the monastery, in which the icon was placed. How the icon of the Virgin Mary was transferred to Cyprus miraculously The hermit Isaiah, with great pride and joy, carried the icon of the Virgin of Kykkos to Cyprus and reached the Troodos mountains, together with the excited crowd of Christians who accompanied him. It is said that in this miraculous event of the transfer of the holy icon, nature participated itself. Bent pine trees and washed-up shells were among the manifestations of nature's reception of the icon of the Virgin Mary of Kykkos. The Kykkos Monastery in Cyprus At the same time, the Boutoumites arrived on the island and handed over to Isaiah the imperial chrysobulls (golden bulls), which proclaimed the Monastery to Stavropegic. The maintenance of the Monastery would be made by the financial support of the villages of Peristerona, Milon and Milikouri. The earliest existing historical record of Kykkos is a document of 1136 and relates to the purchase of the bible by the abbot Daniel of that time. The rest of the information about the first years of the monastery's life and the Byzantine period are derived from references to later texts. Although the testimonies are indirect, they bear witness to the significant influence of the Monastery on the spiritual life of the region. A characteristic example is the iconography based on the Virgin of Kykkos, which is preserved to this day in Sinai and Southern Italy.

Virgin of Jerusalem Acheiropoieta Icon at the Tomb of Mary Gethsemane

The miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary of Jerusalem was hagiographed in 1870 AD, in a miraculous way. At that time, there was an hagiographer nun named Tatiani, who lived at the Russian Holy Monastery of St. Mary of Magdalene, nestled at the foot of the Mount of Olives, opposite Jerusalem. The vision of Tatiani with the Theotokos One night, while Tatiani was sleeping, she saw in vision that an unknown nun had visited her in the cell, telling her: «Sister Tatiani, I came to paint me». Tatiani replied: «Bless, sister, but I am a hagiographer and not a painter». Then the woman responded: «Then, craft a hagiography of me». Tatiani was surprised by the courage of the stranger and said: «I have no wood, where can I paint you?». Immediately, her visitor gave her a plank, suitable for hagiography and instructed her to paint. But while Tatiani was painting the unknown nun, she suddenly saw that her vestments turned to gold and her face radiated brilliance. Then, she heard her say: «Oh blessed Tatiani, after the Apostle and Evangelist Luke, you will paint me now». Tatiani realized she was painting the Virgin Mary! She got upset and woke up. Immediately, she rushed to the Abbess and narrated the vision she saw. The Abbess was distrustful of her words and told her to sleep and the next day to paint an icon of the Virgin Mary. But as she returned, she saw that her cell was bathed in the light and scent was coming out of it. Here you can find icons with the Virgin Mary of Jerusalem. The miracle with the ‘Acheiropoieton’ icon Then, she notified the Abbess and together they entered the bright and fragrant cell, where they saw the most amazing miracle. The icon of the vision was placed in the cell, real, unmanned! In that way, the ‘Acheiropoieton’ icon of the Virgin Mary was miraculously made. The word ‘Acheiropoieton’ (in Greek ‘Αχειροποίητη’) means that the icon is made ‘without hands’. After these miraculous events, the Virgin Mary appeared once more to the nun, saying: «Take me down to my house in Gethsemane». Without a delay, the command of our Lady was fulfilled! Where is the Holy Icon of Panagia Ierosolymitissa today Since then, the icon of the "Panagia Ierosolymitissa" is found in the Holy Tomb of Virgin Mary at the Historical Monument of Gethsemane. This place is the empty tomb of Our Lady, known as the Kenotaphios (empty tomb), since her body was taken up in Heaven on the third day of her Dormition and is capable of performing miracles. The miracles of the holy icon are innumerable wherever it was found. In fact, three times when the Temple of Gethsemane was flooded, the Icon was saved by a miracle, coming out into the ventilation system without being supported anywhere. The miraculous icon has traveled to several parts of Greece for veneration, while a faithful copy of it can be found in the town of Jenisea in Xanthi. Here you can find icons with the Virgin Mary of Jerusalem.

Theotokos Land of Non Land - Monastery of Chora in Constantinople

In Constantinople is located the ‘Monastery of Chora’ (or Khora), as it is named, dedicated to our Lord Jesus Christ. According to tradition, the monastery took its name from the area where it was built, which was called Chora/Khora and lay outside the walls of Constantinople. When the monastery's cathedral was built The monastery's cathedral was built upon an older structure, approximately between 1077 and 1081, by Maria Doukaina, who was the mother-in-law of Emperor Alexios I Komnenos. In 1120, Alexios' son, the sebastokrator Isaac Komnenos, carried out a complete restoration of the church. During the years 1316 and 1321 AD, Theodore Metochites, a venerable Logothete of the General under Andronikos II Palaiologos and a scholar with significant literary writings, undertook the renovation of the church. He added the southern chapel, covering all expenses himself and adorned the church with mosaics and mural paintings. The great mosaic icons of the Monastery At the entrance of the church is placed the mosaic icon of Jesus Christ known as ‘The Land of the Living’ or else called 'Τhe Dwelling Place (chora) of the Living'. Proceeding towards the main sanctuary, we encounter the mosaic icon of the Virgin Mary known as 'Land of non Land’ or 'The Dwelling Place of the Uncontainable'. How are the names of the mosaics connected The names that were given to these two mosaic icons carry deeper meanings. The designation 'The Dwelling Place of the Uncontainable' stems from the miraculous event of the Divine Incarnation of Jesus Christ by the Virgin Mary. The interpretation of the 'The Dwelling Place of the Uncontainable' is only perceptible in conjunction with the name given to the icon of Jesus Christ, namely the 'The Dwelling Place of the Living'. This name likely has a biblical origin, as it is encountered in certain quotes of the Psalms: «...Yet I am confident I will see the Lord’s goodness while I am here in the land of the living...». Therefore, The Dwelling Place of the Living is Jesus Christ Himself through His incarnation by Theotokos. This is the saving event in which the Theotokos accommodated Jesus Christ as the Dwelling Place of the Uncontainable so that afterward the Messiah could accommodate the whole world as the Dwelling Place of the Living. The Monastery of Chora in Constantinople today Today, the Monastery of Chora in Constantinople is open as a museum. It stands as one of the most notable monuments of the Palaiologan era. Thanks to its unique iconography, it has become one of the most remarkable places of Byzantine art with high level of artistic value. Images from: thebyzantinelegacy.com

The Miraculous Icon of Virgin Mary Eleousa - Mercy Giving

The appearance of the Virgin Mary to Athanasios Syros The miraculous icon of the Virgin Eleousa was hidden, at a depth of one and a half meters under the ground over centuries and found in a miraculous way. The Holy Mother of God appeared to the eight-year-old Athanasius Syros, while he was playing with other children on a hillside. She appeared to him as an unknown woman, who was dressed in black and barefoot, to make repentance. Despite the fact that the place was dry, it became soft and sank like the dough, because of the repentance of the unknown woman. At the three spots, where the woman worshiped, the ground started producing a sweet sense. However, no one believed what the little Athanasius experienced. The dialogue between Athanasios and the Virgin Mary That same night, the unknown woman appeared in the sleep of little Athanasius, but this time she had a bright wreath on her head. Little Athanasius asked: «Old Lady, who are you and what do you want from me? I'm afraid!». And then the black-dressed woman responded to him: «Do not be afraid, my little one, I am the Mother of Christ, whom you love so much and He sent me to reveal to you that you have a pure heart and a pure soul and at the place where you saw me praying, you will find an icon of me, if you dig. That place should become a place of worship, a temple, a holy place». With these words, Virgin Mary disappeared from the sight of little Athanasius. The mistrust to the words of Athanasios The next morning, Athanasius recounted to his parents every detail about the second appearance of the Mother of God and begged them to dig where the Virgin Mary had suggested. However, once again, neither his parents nor the other villagers did believe him. Unshaken by the miracle that occurred to him, Athanasius decided to build a small church with stones on his own at the point where Holy Virgin Mary had shown to him and place an icon of the Virgin Mary there. The mistrust of the residents in the village lasted for years until the beginning of June 1962 AD, when an excavating machine reached Xyniada in order to open the streets of the village. After this project was completed, the residents of the village requested the driver to dig and search for the icon of the Virgin Mary. And indeed, this is what happened! Find here: Enamel icon of Panagia Eleousa The discovery of the miraculous icon It took only three excavations to uncover the miraculous icon, next to the root of an oak. Thus, the icon bearing the inscription "Mother of God Eleousa" was revealed. The icon seems to belong to the era of iconoclasm. It was remarkably well-preserved despite its stay in the soil for centuries. Since then, the arrival of the pilgrims has been so great that it has led to the foundation of a larger temple in 1965.Near the church, cells and the other necessary buildings were rebuilt. In 1972, the new Monastery was inaugurated, which soon gained a great reputation. The celebration of the Virgin Mary Eleousa The hymnographer Gerasimos monk Mikrayanannanitis composed the sequence for the Finding of the Icon, which is celebrated on June 21st. In the Monastery, with the tireless care of the abbot and the willing support of the pilgrims, a Nursing home for the elderly was erected to care for the needy elderly of the region. Nowadays, the Icon of the "Virgin Mary Eleousa" has been covered with silver and gold and has been placed in a beautiful pilgrimage.

Prayer for Gratidude - Saint Siluanos the Athonite

Philanthropic Lord, you did not forget your sinful servant, but full of mercy you saw me from your glory and appeared to me in an incomprehensible way! I always offended you and pitied you. But you, Lord, for my small repentance you gave me to know your great love and your immeasurable goodness. Your cheerful and gentle look pleased my soul. What shall I repay Thee, Lord, or what praise shall I offer Thee? You give your grace, so that my heart burns unceasingly with love, and finds no rest either night or day from divine love. Your memory warms my soul, which nothing on earth rests except You. That is why I ask You with tears, and again my mind longs for your sweetness... Lord, give me to love only You. You created me, You enlightened me with holy Baptism, You forgive my sins and give me the grace to partake of your holy Body and Blood. Give me the strength to stay close to you always. Lord, give me the repentance of Adam and your holy humility. Amen Saint Siluanos the Athonite Here you can find all the icons with Saint Silouan the Athonite.

Holy Monastery of Esfigmenou on Mount Athos

Where is the Holy Monastery of Esfigmenou and when was it founded? The Holy Monastery of Esfigmenou is located in a small bay, on the north-eastern side of the Athos Peninsula, near the Monastery of Hilandari. According to tradition, the monastery was founded in the 5th century by Emperor Theodosius II and his sister, Empress Pulcheria. However, historical evidence records the existence of the Monastery of Esfigmenou in the 10th century. The Monastery is mentioned for the first time in 998 AD. with the name "Esfagmenou" in official paper of the Holy Great Monastery of Vatopedi. A few years later, in 1037, the Monastery was renamed "Esfigmenou" and went through a long period of prosperity. In fact, in the year 1045 in the "Typiko of Monomachus" the Holy Monastery of Esfigmenou is in fifth place in the hierarchy of the monasteries of Mount Athos. Today, the Monastery is in the 18th hierarchical position among the monasteries of Mount Athos. The period of decline of the Holy Monastery of Esfigmenou and the important personalities In the middle of the 13th century, the Monastery of Esfigmenou faced significant difficulties and gradually fell into obscurity. Then, it recovers and for the next two centuries, until the conquest by the Turks, the Monastery of Esfigmenou goes through another great period of prosperity. Many emperors of Byzantium, as well as rulers of other Orthodox countries, contributed significantly to the prosperity of the Monastery. Important personalities who settled in the monastery were, among others, the later Patriarch of Constantinople Athanasios and Saint Gregory the Palamas. In fact, Saint Gregory Palamas was the abbot of the Monastery of Esfigmenou for some years (1335-1338 AD). Pirate raids hit the Monastery of Esfigmenou The seaside location of the Monastery offered protection from the weather, but at the same time made the Monastery an easy target for raids by Agarean and Turkish pirates. Numerous lootings, raids and arsons affected the Monastery of Esfigmenou and led it to a long period of great depression. The pirate attacks, combined with the devastating fire of 1491, led to the decline of the Monastery, as a result of which it was threatened with complete desolation after 1533. Until the 17th century, the Holy Monastery of Esfigmenou went through particularly difficult times and reached a difficult financial situation. However, from the 18th century onwards, the Monastery is on a new course of reorganization and reconstruction. The Reconstruction of the Holy Monastery of Esfigmenou In the reconstruction process of the Esfigmenou Monastery, the effort of Metropolitan Melenikos Grigorios is leading the way, who prioritized the repayment of the debts of the Monastery. The activity of Theodoritos Lavriotis during the 19th century (1804–1806) was also noteworthy, putting a lot of effort into the proper communal functioning of the Monastery. During the time that Theodoritos was abbot, the foundations of the new Catholic Church were laid, while at the same time, the reconstruction of the Bank of the Monastery and other important buildings began. The Monastery of Esfigmenou during the Revolution of 1821 In 1821 the Holy Monastery of Esfigmenou was occupied by a Turkish army for more than 10 years (1821-1832). In 1832 Agathangelos Kallipolitis undertook the reconstitution of the Monastery, powerfully managing the Monastery for 40 whole years (1832-1871). Abbot Agathangelos's contribution was significant, as he undertook to rebuild most of the buildings of the Monastery: the bell tower, the chapels, the exonarthex of the Church and the meridian pillar. However, in the following years, until the beginning of the 20th century, various movements led the Esfigmenou Monastery to a large debt of 4,000 Turkish Liras. The Monastery managed to cope with the difficulties and repay the debt, without resorting to inappropriate loans from foreigners. Panagia Arsaniotissa: How the icon of Panagia was miraculously saved The holy and wonderful icon of Panagia Arsaniotissa took its name from the arsana (=port) of Esfigmenou Monastery, as it was placed there for years. In December 1892 there was a large landslide due to heavy rainfall. That night, large rocks from the mountain of Samaria fell and destroyed a large part of the port. Among the debris, the only thing miraculously saved was the part of the wall that protected the shrine with the icon of the Virgin Mary. When the monks took the icon, then this small part of the wall also collapsed. In front of the shrine, a lay fisherman, named Nikolaos Karamaniolas, was sleeping and miraculously he was unharmed by the intervention of the Virgin Mary. Since then, the icon of Panagia Arsaniotissa has been in the main Church, until today. The Church of the Monastery of Esfigmenou, the Library and the Holy Relics The Church of the Holy Monastery of Esfigmenou is located on the west side of the courtyard and is dedicated to the Ascension of the Lord. In 1808 Abbot Theodoritos laid the foundations and three years later, in 1811, Patriarch Gregory V inaugurated it. The Church is enriched with wonderful frescoes by Galatsan painters, Benjamin, Zacharias and Makarios. The most holy icon of the Monastery is of the icon of Virgin Mary Eleousa. Among the most important and sacred relics of the Monastery of Esfigmenou is the Cross of Pulcheria, as well as a large piece from the scene of Napoleon the Great. This piece is used as a covering on the gate of the Church during the festival. In addition, holy relics of Saints are kept in the sacristy of the Monastery. The Library of the Monastery of Esfigmenou is located above the Narthex of the Church and has approximately 6,000 printed books. In addition, there are 372 manuscripts, of which 75 of them are parchments and scrolls. Another special relic is the Menologio of the 11th century, which contains 80 miniatures and 8 representations from the Nativity of Jesus Christ. Finally, the Chrysovulo of Maros of 1428 depicts the family of the Serbian Ruler Bragovic. Contact with Esfigmenou Monastery: Phone: +30 2377 0 23653 Email: [email protected]

Holy Monastery of Philotheou: where the miraculous icon of Virgin Mary Glykofilousa is kept

Where is the Holy Monastery of Philotheou? On the South-Eastern side of the Athonian peninsula, stands out the Holy Monastery of Philotheou. The Monastery is located at an altitude of 300-330 meters on a plateau, full of chestnut trees, near the ancient Asklepiion. The Monastery of Philotheou is only half an hour away from the Karakallou Monastery and is located at a short distance, 1 hour, from the Holy Monastery of Iviron. The Monastery of Philotheou is dedicated to the Annunciation of the Theotokos and since 1574 it has been in the twelfth (12th) position in the hierarchy of the Monasteries of Mount Athos. When was the Holy Monastery of Philotheou founded and who are the builders? The Holy Monastery of Philotheou was founded at the end of the 10th century by three monks, Arsenios, Dionysios and Philotheos, who were contemporaries of Saint Athanasios the Athonite. According to historical data, there was originally a small settlement in the area of Kravatos, called "small Monastery of Fteris". This place was the starting point of today's Philotheou Monastery. The first recorded written reference to the Monastery of Philotheou dates back to around 1015 in an official document. At this point, there is today the chapel of the Prophet Elias. The Holy Monastery of Philotheou over the centuries: a brief history Long before the Turkish occupation, the abbots of the Monastery, such as Nikephoros, George and Loukas, recorded their presence in the historical sources of the 11th and 12th centuries. Donations to the Monastery A decisive role for the prosperity of the Monastery was played by Nikephoros III Bytaniatis, offering financial support to the Monastery of Philotheou, as well as several holy relics of saints and martyrs. In fact, Nikephoros III Bytaniatis is also honored as the second founder of the Monastery. In addition, the Palaiologos emperors, Andronikos II and John V, helped significantly in the maintenance of the Monastery. Then, the financial support was taken over by rulers from Romania. In the middle of the 14th century, Saint Theodosios, later Metropolitan of Trebizond, also became a monk in the Holy Monastery of Philotheou. Saint Theodosios was a brother of Saint Dionysios, founder of the Holy Monastery of Dionysios on Mount Athos. The years of Turkish rule During the early years of the Turkish rule, at the beginning of the 16th century, the presence of Abbot Dionysios, known as Saint Dionysios of Olympus, resulted in the change of the operation of the Monastery from the idiosyncratic to the communal system. However, the reaction of Bulgarian-speaking monks forced him to leave the Monastery. The presence of Slavs in the Monastery of Philotheou was quite influential around the end of the 15th century. This fact is evidenced by a document of 1483 signed by the abbot in Slavic, but also by the frequent financing offered by the Serbian King Stephan Dusan. Shortly before the end of the 15th century, in 1492, the Monastery of Philotheou was renovated by the rulers of Iberia (Georgia), Leontius and Alexander. During the 17th century, many Greek rulers of the Danube regions financially supported the monasteries of Mount Athos. For the Holy Monastery of Filotheou, Grigorios Gikas was a great benefactor. The Holy Monastery of Philotheou in its heyday While for many centuries the Holy Monastery of Philotheou had not acquired significant power, remaining in obscurity, during the last centuries of the Turkish rule it began to gain power. The heyday of the Monastery of Philotheou during the 18th century is largely due to the Greek rulers abroad, who offered great financial aid to the Monastery. This money was used for the construction of new building facilities in the Monastery to meet the needs of the monks. Saint Kosmas the Aetolos in the Monastery of Philotheou The 18th century was brilliant for the Holy Monastery of Philotheou and for another important reason. Saint Kosmas the Aetolos lived at the Monastery and from there he began to preach the word of God, building temples and schools for the subservient Greeks. In 1746, the Church of the Monastery was completed, which had been built on the foundations of the old one. The Church celebrates the Annunciation of Virgin Mary and within it the frescoes from the Apocalypse stand out, as well as a fresco of Alexander the Great. The fire of 1871 left the Church unchanged, but caused severe damage and financially affected the monastery. In 1900 the Holy Community undertook to help the Holy Monastery of Philotheou, which finally manages to get back on its feet. From 1973 until today, the Monastery follows the communal administration system. Metochia of the Philotheou Monastery: chapels and Kathisma Next to the sea, the Holy Monastery of Philotheou has the holy water of Panagia Glykofilousa, which springs up steadily and unchanged, without reducing the quantity or temperature of the water. According to tradition, the abbot of the Monastery had seen a vision of Virgin Mary asking him to transfer the icon from that point to the monastery. Here you can find all the icons with Panagia Glykofilousa. In addition, the Monastery of Philotheou has a unique place, the historical cave of Saint Dionysios "of Olympus", where he lived before becoming abbot of the Monastery. In the capital of Mount Athos, in Karyes, is the representative office of the Monastery of Philotheou, built in 1964, where there is also a chapel of Saint Kosmas Aitolos. The Monastery of Philotheou has a total of nine chapels. In the building area within the Monastery we find six chapels: one is dedicated to the Archangels, one to Saint John the Baptist, one to Saint Marina, the Holy Five Martyrs, Saint John Chrysostom and Saint Nicholas. Outside the Monastery there are two chapels of the Three Hierarchs or Saint Tryphon, the Genesis of Virgin Mary or Panagouda as well as the cemetery Church of All Saints. The sacred relics of the Holy Monastery of Philotheou Various relics are kept in the monastery's sacristy, with perhaps the most important being the right hand of Saint John Chrysostom. In addition, the Monastery owns a piece of Holy Wood, a gift from the emperor Nikephoros III Botaneiatis, relics of Saints, vestments and church utensils. In the Holy Monastery of Filotheou there is also the miraculous icon of Panagia Glykofilousa, but also of Panagia Gerontissa. The library of the Monastery contains 250 manuscripts, 2 liturgical scrolls and about 2,500 printed materials, of which about 500 are in Russian and Romanian. Contact with Monastery of Filotheou: Phone: +30 23770 23256 Email: [email protected], [email protected]

Holy Monastery of Konstamonitou: the history of the Monastery with the miraculous icon of Panagia Antiphonitria

The location of the Konstamonitou Monastery and the communication with other Monasteries The Holy Patriarchal and Stavropegic Monastery of Konstamonitou is located in a lonely location, in the unspoilt forest of Kriovouni, near the center of the Athonian peninsula, in the area of the Sigitiko gulf. To reach the Monastery, a pilgrim has to walk for about an hour from the mountain, passing through an olive grove and then through a chestnut forest. The communication of the Konstamonitou Monastery with other monasteries is not easy due to the inaccessible area and its isolation. However, there are some paths to Zografou Monastery or Vatopedi Monastery. Specifically, the route to the Zografou Monastery takes about 1.5 hours and crosses a beautiful path, through a lush forest. The Holy Monastery of Konstamonitou is in the 20th (last) position in the hierarchy of the Monasteries of Mount Athos. The Holy Monastery of Konstamonitou through the centuries: a brief history The founder of the Konstamonitou Monastery Regarding the history of the Monastery, there are various theories about its foundation. According to a newer tradition, the Monastery was founded by Emperor Constantine the Great and completed by his son, Constantius. Other sources state that the establishment of the monastery was carried out by a monk who came from Kastamonas of Paphlagonia or Kastamonas of Pontos. In addition, there are testimonies that mention as the founder of the Monastery a scion of a rich family of Constantinople. The reconstruction of the Holy Monastery of Konstamonitou Around the end of the 18th century, the Monastery of Konstamonitou followed the communal administration system with the seal of Patriarch Neophytos VII. However, the substantial reconstruction of the monastery began in 1818 during the hegemony of Chrysantho from Epirus, at the expense of Ali Pasha and with the mediation of Kyra Vasiliki. Then the eastern wing of the Monastery was rebuilt. The reconstruction of the Monastery continued during the reign of Simeon Stageiritis. Abbot Simeon secured financial resources for the Monastery and rebuilt the Church and the northern wing. The Church of the Monastery, which is dedicated to the memory of Saint Stephen, is located in the center of the courtyard and was erected in 1867, on the ruins of the older Church. The icon of Panagia Antiphonitria The architecture of the Holy Monastery of Konstamonitou follows the athonite model. Its walls are decorated with many portable icons, several of which have great historical and cultural value. The icon of the Theotokos of Antiphonitria, who performed a great miracle in the Monastery in 1020, as reported according to tradition, stands out. The Chapels and metochia of the Monastery The Holy Monastery of Konstamonitou has a total of nine chapels, four inside the monastery and five outside it. One of the chapels worth seeing is that of Panagia Portaitissa, located in the south wing of the Monastery above the entrance and built in 1871. The chapel is adorned by a wood-carved iconostasis of particular aesthetic value and houses an icon of Panagia Portaitissa, which she is also miraculous. Also, on one floor of the southeast wing we find the chapel of All Saints (Agion Panton) and on another floor we find the largest chapel of the Monastery, dedicated to Saint Constantine. The chapel of Saint Nikolaos is located on the north side of the Monastery enclosure. Besides the chapels of the Monastery, there are other chapels in the area. The chapel of Panagouda, with its remarkable Byzantine frescoes, is located outside the monastery. On the site of the old monastery is the chapel of Saint Antonios with a special wooden iconostasis dating back to 1670. The chapel of the Holy Trinity is located in a special position in a very beautiful spot, while the chapel of Saint Nikolaos is located in Arsana of the monastery. In addition, there is a chapel in the cemetery of the monastery. Finally, it is worth mentioning the Cemetery Church of the Konstamonitou Monastery. This Church is a short distance from the Monastery, facing southeast and is dedicated to the memory of the Archangels Michael and Gabriel. The Konstamonitou Monastery has a cell in Karyes, which is essentially the representative office of the Monastery, as well as two Kathismata in the wider area of the Monastery. The relics of the Holy Monastery of Konstamonitou: miraculous icons, ecclesiastical heirlooms and relics of Saints In the sacristy of the Konstamonitou Monastery, a Byzantine cross of excellent art, a piece of Sacred Wood, as well as relics of many Saints are kept in reliquaries. There is also a silver-gold plated Gospel that comes from Epirus and was made in 1820 as a gift from Kyra Vasiliki. The Monastery's collection of ecclesiastical utensils, gold and silver seals, as well as official documents is also rich. What stands out among the relics of the Monastery are the three miraculous icons of Saint Stephen, Our Lady of Antiphonatria and Our Lady of Odigetria. Finally, in the library of the Monastery, more than 100 manuscripts, 14 parchments and more than 1000 ancient copies are kept. In general, the Holy Patriarchal and Stavropegic Monastery of Konstamonitou is a remarkable Monastery on Mount Athos, with a unique architectural and religious significance. Visiting it can provide an experience of spiritual upliftment and appreciation of the history and tradition of Mount Athos. Contact with Monastery of Konstamonitou: Phone: +30 23770 23228, +30 23770 23228 Email: -

Holy Monastery of Karakallou: the Monastery dedicated to the Apostles Peter and Paul

Where is the Holy Monastery of Karakallou? The Holy Monastery of Karakallou is built on a slope, on the Northeast side of Mount Athos, at an altitude of 200m. It is located between the monasteries of Great Lavra and Iviron, while it is 30 minutes from the sea and 3 hours from Karyes. The Holy Monastery of Karakallou celebrates on June 29th the Apostles Peter and Paul and is in the 11th place in the hierarchy of the Monasteries of Mount Athos. Who is the founder of Karakallou Monastery? According to the tradition, the most likely version for the foundation of the Monastery of Karakallou speculates that a monk by the name of Karakalas, at the beginning of the 11th century, was the founder. The mention of the Monastery in an official document of the First Nikephoros (1018) and its omission in the Second charter or Typikon, is an example of the turbulent course of the monastery. On the other hand, it is possible that the name of the Monastery comes from the Turkish phrases "kara kale", meaning black fortress, or "kara kule" meaning black tower. The Holy Monastery of Karakallou over the centuries The depredations of the pirates and the favors of the Palaeologian Emperors The pirate raids that plagued the Athonian peninsula during the first two centuries since the foundation of the Athonian State, did not leave the course of the Caracallos Monastery unaffected. The blow of the raids was so great that in the 13th century, after the invasion of pirates and Latins, the Holy Monastery of Caracallou was led to complete desolation. However, the saving intervention of the Palaeologos Emperors, Andronikos II and John V, as well as the Patriarch of Constantinople, Athanasios, gave life to the monastery again. At the same time, during that period the number of monks increased and the Monastery was renovated. A few years later, the Monastery was once again the target of pirate raids, but this time it recovered more quickly. With the contribution of the Voevodas of Wallachia Ioannis Petros D'Rares, the Monastery was immediately rebuilt. In fact, Ioannis Petrou IV Rares himself eventually became a monk at the Karakallou Monastery and was honored as the second founder. In the year 1534, after the financial support offered by the Voevodas Ioannis Petros, and with the initiative of the abbot Germanos, the tower was built with its own refectory (trapeza). The heyday of the Holy Monastery of Karakalou and the favor of the Sultan In addition, following the permission of Sultan Suleiman, and with the special support of his daughter, the Karakalou Monastery was financially strengthened and experienced a significant period of prosperity. The flourishing period of the Monastery continued in the 17th century. Around 1674, the kings of Iberia (Georgia) Arihil and Vakhtang contributed to the prosperity of the Karakalou Monastery and donated to it the share of Saint Nikolaos in Ismailia. In 1875, the devastating fire that broke out led to the second phase of reconstruction of the Monastery, where older structures were repaired, and additions were made. Then, the refectory was rebuilt, Cells for the monks and guest houses. In recent years, the Holy Monastery of Karakallou took an active part in the struggles of the Greeks during the Greek War of Independence of 1821. The buildings of the Karakallou Monastery: the largest tower of Mount Athos Among the buildings of the Karakallou Monastery, a very remarkable work is the tower of Peter, which was built in the 16th century and is the largest of all the towers of Mount Athos! In addition, the Holy Monastery of Karakallou has 7 chapels and 18 Cells. Its Church is a 16th century building with additions in later centuries and is commemorated in memory of the Apostles Peter and Paul. The current Trapeza (refectory) of the Karakallou Monastery was built in 1875, but its original form is much older. The Library and the relics of the Monastery of Karakallou In the sacristy of the Karakallou Monastery are kept gold-embroidered vestments, liturgical utensils and a piece of Sacred Wood. In addition, among the relics of the Monastery are treasured the skull of Saint Bartholomew the Apostle and Saint Christopher. Furthermore, many portable icons are kept, the most important of which is that of the Apostles Peter and Paul, to whom the Monastery of Karakallou is dedicated. This icon was created in 1540 by the painter Konstantinos Palaiokapas. Another important icon is the one of the Twelve Apostles, which is placed on the wooden iconostasis of the Church and is a work of 1722 by Dionysios Fournas. 279 manuscripts and approximately 2,500 printed books are stored in the library of the Karakallou Monastery. Contact with Monastery of Karakallou: Phone: +30 23770 23225, 23770 23746 Email: [email protected]