Virgin Dexia

Description

The oral tradition, the image is transferred from a monk or new orphan father, who after a dream of places in church right as one enters the city of Thessaloniki from the door of the eastern walls! Thus, according to tradition, the image was named Notre Right. Another tradition says that the name “Right” because the Virgin is depicted Dexiokratousa bears that Jesus in her right hand, while the most common hagiography is to bring the divine Child in her left hand.

Panagia Deksia is located next to the Arch of Galerius within a very small distance. Built in 1956 Panagia Deksia incorporates wonderful byzantine architecture along with some modern – neo classical influences, similar to many Greek Orthodox temples.

There are many assumptions concerning the origin of the church’s name. It is widely believed though that it is due to the icon hosted in the temple, a religious artifact related to several myths and legends.

Unlike the vast majority of the byzantine religious icons, this one represents Virgin Mary holding little infant Jesus on the right side and not to the left, thus called “Deksia”, “Deksa” or “Dexiokratousa”.