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For centuries, the faithful in Georgia (the country, not the state) have venerated a precious relic: the Robe of the Most Holy Mother of God. This sacred garment, traditionally believed to have belonged to the Virgin Mary herself, has been a source of hope for countless pilgrims since Byzantine times.
The robe’s history in Georgia remains shrouded in mystery – at least, to some extent. Some traditions claim it arrived in the early 12th century from Jerusalem, while others assert it found refuge there during the 8th century Byzantine iconoclasm – a period of persecution against religious images.
The Life of Kartli, a medieval Georgian chronicle also known simply as The Georgian Chronicles, confirms the robe’s presence in Khobi Monastery for many centuries, regardless of its exact arrival date.
The robe has been venerated there since at least the 17th century. Russian envoys and various travelers, including an Italian missionary and monks from Mount Athos, all documented their encounters with this holy relic.
The robe was kept in a silver case on the altar and secured by the seals of both the Catholicos (the name given to the head of the Georgian Church) and a local prince.
Miracles and healings were attributed to the robe for centuries, solidifying its significance for Georgian Christians.
On July 2 each year, a solemn procession carries the robe from the Zugdidi Museum (where the robe is currently kept) to the Cathedral of the Blachernae Icon of the Theotokos. For pilgrims from Georgia and beyond, the robe is a tangible expression of Mary’s enduring maternal presence, and a source of strength when facing challenges – both visible and invisible.
And today we celebrate...