“Myrtles.” Does that word spark an image in your mind? Perhaps a fragrant bush with delicate white flowers? Here at Panagia Myrtidiotissa in Athens, the name connects us to a story of faith and discovery.
Panagia Myrtidiotissa is more than just a church. It is a beacon of hope. Its history is interwoven with tales of miracles and a deep connection to the island of Kythera.
Let’s journey back to the 13th century. Imagine a humble shepherd on Kythera. He searched among the myrtle bushes. There he discovered a holy icon. This icon of the Virgin Mary became known as Myrtidiotissa. This name literally translates to “Myrtle Virgin”. The shepherd built a small chapel on the spot. This marked the humble beginning of a sacred place.
Over time, the chapel grew into the Monastery of Panagia Myrtidiotissa on Kythera. Pilgrims flocked to venerate the miraculous icon. Its fame spread far beyond the island’s shores.
The icon’s story is filled with accounts of divine intervention. One tells of a paralyzed man. He was miraculously healed after praying before the icon. Another recounts how the Panagia Myrtidiotissa saved the fortress of Chora from destruction. This happened during a fierce thunderstorm in 1829. These miracles solidified the icon’s reputation as a source of hope and protection.
The icon itself has an interesting history. In 1837, an artist named Nikolaos Spithakis placed the icon in a wooden frame. This made the icon appear larger and more majestic. The icon’s golden “shirt” is adorned with precious stones. Diamonds, gold chains and other precious offerings cover the icon. These represent the gratitude of those who have received blessings.
The most important religious festival of Kythira is Panagia Myrtidiotissa’s Name Day celebrated yearly on September 24th. Many Greek pilgrims come to Kythira to visit the monastery and to honour the Myrtidiotissa icon.
The people of Kythera expressed their love for the Panagia Myrtidiotissa with a litany. It takes place every first Sunday of Great Lent. The icon is carried from village to village. It makes a cycle of 15 days until its return to the monastery.
Panagia Myrtidiotissa stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith. It reminds us of the humble shepherd and the miraculous discovery. May the story of Panagia Myrtidiotissa inspire us to seek hope. May we find solace in the embrace of faith.