Iviron: The Monastery of the Gate-Keeper Icon
Founded by Georgian monks a thousand years ago, Iviron guards the Panagia Portaitissa — the 'Gate-Keeper' — an icon that, tradition says, chose its own place and protects the whole Holy Mountain.
Founded: 10th century · Dedicated to: The Dormition of the Virgin
Iviron stands on the north-east coast of the Athos peninsula, founded in the late 10th century by monks from Georgia (Iberia), from which it takes its name. It holds third place in the hierarchy of the twenty ruling monasteries.
The Portaitissa
Its greatest treasure is the icon of the Panagia Portaitissa, the 'Keeper of the Gate'. Tradition tells that the icon came across the sea standing upright on the water and insisted, through a vision, on being placed at the monastery gate rather than inside — a guardian at the threshold. It is among the most venerated icons in all of Orthodoxy.
A house of learning
Iviron was for centuries a centre of Georgian and Greek letters, with a famous library of manuscripts in several languages, and it gave the Church saints, scholars and translators.
On the Holy Mountain
Set above its own arsanas (harbour) on the gentler eastern shore, Iviron remains one of the largest and most visited monasteries on Athos.
Frequently asked questions
What is Iviron monastery known for?
The miraculous icon of the Panagia Portaitissa, the 'Gate-Keeper', one of the most venerated icons in Orthodoxy.
Who founded Iviron?
Georgian (Iberian) monks in the late 10th century, which is why it is called Iviron.
Where is Iviron on Mount Athos?
On the north-east coast of the peninsula, above its own harbour.