The Holy Belt (Girdle) of the Theotokos arrived in Piraeus with the honours of a head of state and all splendor, on Saturday. The unique theological relic from the Virgin Mary’s earthly life arrived from the Vatopedi Monastery where it is kept.

A crowd of people had gathered early in the port of Piraeus to welcome the relic of unique religious value which arrived by Coast Guard ship.

The sirens and bells rang loudly and accompanying vessels of the Coast Guard, as a sign of honour, sprinkled water on the vessel carrying the Holy Belt, creating an Arch of Honor.

The Holy Belt was handed over to the Metropolitan of Piraeus, Seraphim, by the abbot of the Vatopedi Monastery, Elder Ephraim, in the first “exit” for the relic after 2019 and the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Holy relic will remain in Piraeus, specifically in the church of Agios Nikolaos, where it was taken in procession, until November 13.

The church of Agios Nikolaos will remain open 24 hours a day until November 13th to accommodate as many Christians as possible to venerate.