On religious links between Mount Athos and Altai in the 19th — beginning of the 20th century

A significant spiritual connection between Mount Athos and the Altai Region emerged in the late 19th century, marked by the introduction of an icon of Saint Panteleimon to Altai in 1879. This icon became a focal point for religious life, fostering new conversions and strengthening faith among the newly baptized. The study reveals that while Athonite asceticism influenced local religious practices, it did not fully integrate into the missionary openness of Altai monasteries. Key manifestations of this connection included pilgrimages, visits by monks from Athos, donations to Athonite monasteries, and the dissemination of spiritual literature. Notably, icons and relics from Mount Athos were revered as local shrines, contributing to the spread of Orthodoxy in the region.

Kreydun, Y. (2018). On religious links between Mount Athos and Altai in the 19th — beginning of the 20th century. St. Tikhon’s University Review, 81, 52–63. https://doi.org/10.15382/sturii201881.52-63