1. Icon of the Mother of God of Vladimir
This icon, also known as the Our Lady of Vladimir, is one of the oldest and most beloved representations of the Virgin Mary in the Russian Orthodox tradition. It is believed to have been painted in Byzantium in the 12th century and was brought to Russia, where it became a symbol of divine protection over the Russian people. The icon depicts the Mother of God holding the Infant Jesus, with an expression of compassion and maternal love. What is particularly striking about this icon is the fineness of the features and the emotional depth rendered, characteristics that inspire both tranquility and hope.
2. The Pantocrator of Sinai
The Sinai Icon of the Pantocrator is one of the oldest icons of Christ, preserved in the Monastery of Saint Catherine on Mount Sinai, Egypt. Dating from the 6th century, this icon is a symbol of divine power and wisdom, depicting Christ in the position of the Supreme Judge, with one hand blessing and the other holding the Gospel. What makes this icon unique is the subtle asymmetry of the Savior's face, which symbolizes his duality - mercy and justice.
3. Icon of the Mother of God of Kazan
The Icon of the Mother of God of Kazan is considered one of the most precious and beloved icons in Russia, revered for the miracles attributed to it. It was miraculously discovered by a little girl in the city of Kazan in 1579, after a devastating fire. The icon represents the image of the Virgin with the Child Jesus and is celebrated for its ability to bring peace and spiritual comfort. Many believers consider this icon to be the protector of Russia and of believers everywhere.
4. Icon of Saint Nicholas
Saint Nicholas, Archbishop of Myra, is one of the most beloved saints of Orthodoxy and has been depicted in numerous icons over the centuries. The classic icon of Saint Nicholas depicts him blessing and pointing to the Gospel, a symbol of Christian love and generosity. In these depictions, Saint Nicholas is often seen as a protector of children, sailors, and all those in need, which adds to the devotion to this icon.
5. Icon of the Mother of God Portarita from Iviron
This icon is kept in the Iviron Monastery on Mount Athos and has a miraculous story. According to tradition, the icon was thrown into the sea by a widow from Nicaea to protect it from iconoclasts, and was discovered floating on the sea, being brought to shore undamaged. The Mother of God is represented as a "gatekeeper" (Portarita), symbolizing her unceasing protection and care for the monastery and all who pray to it. This icon is revered for the miraculous protection it has provided to the monastery and its faithful throughout history.
6. The Holy Trinity Icon by Andrei Rublev
The Holy Trinity is one of the most famous masterpieces of Orthodox iconography, created by the Russian painter Andrei Rublev in the 15th century. It is a depiction of the biblical scene of the three angels visiting Abraham and is considered a symbol of divine love and communion. Rublev's sublime style and chromatic harmony create an atmosphere of peace and tranquility, offering viewers a symbolic vision of the connection between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
7. The Holy Shroud of the Lord
This icon, also known as the Mandylion, is one of the most revered relics in Orthodox Christianity and is associated with the face of Christ. According to tradition, the image of Christ's face was miraculously imprinted on a cloth, which was sent to King Abgar of Edessa, healing him of a serious illness. The Mandylion became a symbol of the divine presence and mercy of God, serving as a source of inspiration for many icons of Christ throughout the Orthodox world.
