The delegation of Pridnestrovian pilgrims, led by Archbishop of Tiraspol and Dubossary Savva, visited Mount Athos.
The first destination of the pilgrimage was Iviron Monastery. It is in this monastery where the Our Lady of Iveron icon, also known as Panagia Portaitissa, was wonderfully discovered. Archbishop Savva and other pilgrims prayed the holy image of the Virgin Mary.
The next destination was Stavronikita Monastery. This monastery keeps the marvellous icon of Saint Nicholas, known as «Streidas», which is Greek for oyster.
According to the legend, the icon was thrown to the sea by iconoclasts in the 9th century. It was discovered in the sea in the perfect state, but when the oyster was removed, there remained a deep bleeding wound on the saint's forehead.
The pilgrims also visited the capital of the monastic state — Karyes. The altar of Assumption Cathedral keeps the main relic of Mount Athos — the holy icon of the Virgin Mary «Theotokos, Axion Estin», which is the saint patron of Athos. The icon dates back to the 10th century.
The pilgrims further proceeded to Koutloumousiou monastery, which is situated on a very picturesque woody slope. The monastery is dedicated to the Transfiguration of Our Saviour.
Another memorable place visited by the Pridnestrovian delegation was the scete of St Andrew, where the relics of St Andrew and miracle-working icon of the Virgin Mary are kept.
After a long day, the pilgrims put up at St Panteleimon Monastery, which keeps alongside many miracle-working icons and holy relics the head of Saint Panteleimon is kept. There, on 29 October, Archbishop Savva served the night Divine Liturgy.
