The Deposition of the Honorable Robe of the Theotokos at Blachernae

The Deposition of the Honorable Robe of the Theotokos at Blachernae is a significant event in the Byzantine Faith.

During the reign of the Byzantine Emperor Leo the Great (457-474), two associates of the emperor, Galbius and Candidus, traveled to Palestine to venerate holy places. In a small settlement near Nazareth, they stayed with an old Jewish woman. She revealed a precious sacred item: the Robe of the Mother of God, which had performed miracles and healings. Before her Dormition, the Most Holy Virgin bequeathed this garment to a pious Jewish maiden, who passed it down through generations.

The jeweled chest containing the sacred Robe was eventually transferred to Constantinople. Patriarch St. Gennadius and Emperor Leo verified its authenticity and incorrupt state. St. Gennadius solemnly placed the Robe in the Blachernae church, along with part of the Mother of God’s belt.