Iviron

The Iviron Monastery — **Monastery of Iviron** (Georgians) — is the third in rank of honor among the monasteries of Mount Athos, founded in **980 AD** by Georgian (Iberian) nobles. Despite its national roots, it operates today as a Greek monastery. It houses one of the most sacred objects of Orthodox Christianity: the **icon of the Mother of God Portaitissa** ("Mother of God of the Gate"). According to tradition, the icon miraculously arrived at Mount Athos from Nicaea in the 9th century. It is kept in a special chapel at the main gate of the monastery and is considered the protector of the entire Mount Athos. The monastery is located on the **northeastern coast** not far from Karyes (the administrative center of Mount Athos). Its small harbor (Iberitic) receives boats from Daphne. Architecturally, it stands out for its **early Christian mosaic** on the southern facade of the katholikon and for its defensive tower from the 10th century. The library contains over **2,000 manuscripts**, including rare Georgian ones. For pilgrims: Iviron is easily accessible and welcomes visitors. Access is from Daphne by boat (45 minutes) or from Karyes (2 hours of hiking).