The Dormition of the Theotokos at Tinos

The Dormition of the Theotokos at Tinos is the principal Marian pilgrimage in Greece, held on 15 August at the Church of Panagia Evangelistria. The shrine stands above the harbour town on the site where, on 31 January 1823, the icon of the Annunciation was unearthed. The Panhellenic Holy Institution of Evangelistria was formally established in January 1825 and administers the shrine, which is the declared national patron of Greece.

The 2025 ceremony proceeded in the established order: the Archieratic Divine Liturgy was presided over by the Metropolitan of Syros and Tinos, and at 10:30 the icon of the Megalochari was carried in solemn procession down the marble way to the quay. Pilgrims climb the same approach from the port, many on their knees by long custom, with candles and offerings. A wreath is laid at the harbour over the sea grave of the cruiser Elli, torpedoed off Tinos during this feast in 1940. By a decree of 1836 the celebration runs as an eight-day observance.