Icon of the Most Holy Theotokos “Pantanassa” (Queen of All)

The miraculous icon “Pantanassa” is located in the Vatopedi Monastery on Mount Athos. It is venerated throughout the Orthodox world, inspiring numerous miracles and manifestations of holiness.

The icon was painted in the 17th century and was blessed by the renowned elder Joseph the Hesychast for his disciples. There is a recorded story associated with this icon.

Some time after the icon’s completion, an extraordinary young man appeared at the monastery. Standing before the “Pantanassa,” he murmured incomprehensible words. Suddenly, the face of the Theotokos shone like lightning, and an invisible force cast him to the ground. When he regained his senses, he immediately went to the fathers to confess, tears in his eyes. He recounted that he had lived far from God and practiced magic, coming to the monastery to test his power against the sacred icons. The miracle he experienced convinced him to change his life, repent, and become pious. After his healing, the young man wished to remain on Mount Athos.

In the icon, the Most Holy Theotokos is depicted in regal robes, seated on a throne, symbolizing heavenly authority rather than earthly power. With her right hand, she points to her Son, the Savior of humanity.