Unique 12th-century icons from Hilandar presented in Serbia's capital

Patriarch Porfirije visited the "Saint Sava" exhibition. Photo: Serbian Orthodox Church

On June 23, 2026, the Primate of the Serbian Orthodox Church visited the "Saint Sava" exhibition at the Gallery of the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts (SANU). The exhibition is dedicated to the 850th anniversary of the birth of the first archbishop of the autocephalous Serbian Church, reports the UOJ in Serbia.

At the center of the exhibition are unique relics from Hilandar Monastery, including 13th-century icons of Christ Pantocrator and the Most Holy Theotokos, as well as a 12th-century mosaic image of the Theotokos Hodegetria. According to the saint's life, it was before this mosaic icon that the father of Saint Sava — the Venerable Simeon the Myrrh-Streaming — reposed in the Lord.

Patriarch Porfirije emphasized the special significance of the exhibition for women, who, according to the Athonite rule, are denied access to the monasteries of the Holy Mountain. "For this generation, and especially for women, this is the only opportunity to see and venerate the most significant shrines of Hilandar before they return to Athos," the Patriarch noted.

The display also features historical artifacts, including the abbot's staff of Hilandar and the staff (paterissa) of Saint Sabbas the Sanctified. In conclusion, the Patriarch praised a contemporary icon of Saint Sava painted by Elena Hinić for the Holy Archangels Lavra in Kovilj. The exhibition, which has brought together the principal spiritual treasures of the Serbian people, will remain open to visitors until July 19, 2026.

As the UOJ previously reported, the abbot of Hilandar received a state award from Serbia for the revival of the monastery.

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