Case file · Apparition / miracle
The Virgin defends Constantinople
During the Avar and Persian siege of Constantinople in 626, the Byzantines carried the Virgin's robe and icons along the walls; when the Avar canoes were destroyed, the city credited her protection.
626 CE · 41.04, 28.94 · status: legend
The account
Chroniclers said a woman in shining robes was seen on the walls near the Blachernae church. The Akathist Hymn's opening verse is linked to the deliverance.