Panagia Prousiotissa: From Byzantine Wonder to American Sanctuary
Ancient Origins: A Legacy of Faith
The story of Panagia Prousiotissa—“Our Lady of Proussa”—begins in the 9th century in Prousa (modern-day Bursa, Turkey), where Orthodox tradition holds that the icon was painted by St. Luke the Evangelist. During the iconoclastic reign of Emperor Theophilos (829–842), icons were banned and often destroyed. In an act of courage and devotion, a young noble fled with the icon to protect it.
According to tradition, the icon was later lost near Gallipoli but miraculously reappeared in a cave in the mountainous region of Evrytania, Greece. There, shepherds witnessed a divine light shining from the cave, leading to the discovery of the sacred image. This miraculous event inspired the foundation of the Holy Monastery of Proussos, where the icon has been venerated ever since.
The Monastery’s Trials and Miracles
Carved into the cliffs of southwestern Greece, the Proussos Monastery has survived centuries of adversity—from Ottoman occupation to destruction during World War II. In 1944, German forces burned many of the monastery buildings, yet the icon remained miraculously unharmed, sealed within a crypt deep inside the rock.
The monastery has long been known for miracles of healing and protection attributed to the Theotokos through her icon. Pilgrims continue to journey there—especially on August 23, the feast day of Panagia Prousiotissa—to give thanks, pray, and seek intercession.
A Miraculous Refuge During Wartime
Eyewitness accounts from World War II recall that a German soldier attempted to destroy the icon but was physically unable to lift his arm—a moment understood by the faithful as divine intervention.
Even during Greece’s internal conflicts, the icon was temporarily moved to a fortress in Nafpaktos. There, it was said that a flickering light and the presence of a mysterious nun kneeling in prayer by the icon filled the chapel with awe. These stories endure as signs of the Theotokos’s continued presence and power.
The Icon’s Arrival in America
In June 2008, with the blessing of the Holy Monastery of Proussos and the Metropolis of Karpenisi, the only known accurate replica of Panagia Prousiotissa was brought to the United States. It was enshrined at the Greek Orthodox Monastery of Panagia Prousiotissa in Troy, North Carolina.
The Troy monastery was established in 1998 under the spiritual guidance of Elder Ephraim of Arizona, a disciple of Saint Joseph the Hesychast and Elder Joseph of Philotheou. Today, it is led by Gerontissa Agne, and has become a center of Orthodox prayer, monastic life, and pilgrimage.
A Living Presence in Troy, NC
Set on a quiet hillside in Troy, North Carolina, the replica icon resides in a prayerful setting where pilgrims come to light candles, offer prayers, and venerate the Mother of God. The Troy monastery observes the feast of Panagia Prousiotissa on August 22–23, echoing the age-old traditions of Evrytania.
Visitors often describe the experience as deeply peaceful and spiritually restorative, as if transported to the cave-chapel of Greece. The replica icon serves not just as a symbol, but as a living witness to the love and mercy of the Theotokos.
Why Panagia Prousiotissa Matters
Divine Protection Across Generations
The icon survived persecution, fire, war, and exile. Her legacy speaks to the enduring mercy of God.A Healer of Body and Soul
From ancient times to the present, she is known to respond to the heartfelt prayers of the faithful.Uniting East and West
The presence of her icon in Troy brings the grace of Orthodox monasticism to America, preserving timeless traditions.A Call to Retreat and Prayer
Pilgrims are invited to visit, reflect, and draw closer to Christ through the prayers of His holy Mother.
Plan Your Visit
We warmly welcome you to Troy, NC to venerate Panagia Prousiotissa in person.
Whether you are in need of healing, peace, or spiritual strength, the Theotokos offers a quiet refuge to all who seek her with faith and humility.
Feast Day: August 22–23
Location: Panagia Prousiotissa Monastery – Troy, NC
Contact: Visit panagiaprousiotissa.org
Sources & Further Reading
May the prayers of Panagia Prousiotissa be with you and your loved ones.
If you feel moved to support our ministry, please consider making a gift or planning your visit today.
