The
Holy Church of Panagia Evaggelistria of Tinos is one of the most famous
churches in Greece. It was built on the site where the Icon of the Annunciation
of the Virgin Mary was miraculously discovered after the Nun Pelagia had a
vision. The faithful believe that the Icon performs miracles. There are
inspiring stories of the redeeming intervention of the Virgin Mary which people
have been fortunate enough to experience after dedicating fervent prayers to
Her during difficult times in their lives.
The history of the
Holy pilgrimage and the history of the Modern Greek state run parallel. The
discovery of the Icon in 1923 was considered a divine omen for the justice and
the success of the revolution against the Turkish occupation, while the
erection of the grand church was the first large architectural project of the
newly established Greek state.
Throughout the year
pilgrims gather from all over the Orthodox World in order to pay respect to the
Holy Icon, kept in this church and which is studded with diamonds, sapphires
and pearls – offerings given by emperors, kings and the faithful Christians.
Especially in August,
the whole island is swamped by pilgrims who have come to pray in Her church or
in fulfillment of a vow. As Our lady’s feast day, 15 August, approaches, the
church and island of Tinos become crammed with people. Religious services take
place next to the commercial fair being held in the surrounding streets. The
Church stands imposingly, high up at the end of the main road. It is built of
white marble and is ringed by a number of ancillary buildings.
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