Saint Achilleios icon, Handmade Greek Orthodox icon of St Achillius of Larisa, Byzantine art wall hanging wood plaque, religious gift

Orthodox Icon of Saint Achilleios of Larissa - Light of Faith

Orthodox Icon of Saint Achilleios of Larissa, meticulously produced as a high-quality lithography, is celebrated on May 15 and represents the spiritual heritage of this revered saint. This unique Orthodox icon features a vivid depiction of Saint Achilleios, known for his sanctity and miraculous deeds as the Bishop of Larissa.

Saint Achilleios, born in Cappadocia, became the first recorded Bishop of Larissa in Thessaly, Greece, after Emperor Constantine I became the Emperor of the Roman Empire. He participated in the First Ecumenical Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, where he boldly defended orthodoxy against the heresy of Arianism. During the council, he performed a miracle by calling upon a stone to produce oil, demonstrating the divinity of Christ.

Upon returning from the council, Saint Achilleios is reputed to have destroyed many pagan temples, built and adorned numerous churches, and cast out many demons. He was known for his gift of healing, especially in cases of demonic possession, and performed many miracles throughout his life.

Saint Achilleios died peacefully in Larissa around the year 330 AD. When the Tsar of Bulgaria, Samuel, conquered Thessaly in the 10th century, he translated the relics of Saint Achilleios to an island in Lake Prespa, which was subsequently named after the saint. His relics have been in Prespa since 978.

The iconography of this icon highlights Saint Achilleios’s spiritual resilience and his pivotal role as a shepherd and healer. The icon is adorned with a double varnish layer for enduring depth and brilliance, with subtle artificial aging to add an antique touch. This makes it a cherished addition to any home or church, serving as a constant reminder of Saint Achilleios's unwavering faith. This versatile Orthodox icon can be easily displayed on a wall or placed on a flat surface, perfect for any prayer corner at home.

Saint Achilleios’s legacy continues to inspire Christians worldwide, symbolizing steadfast faith and the enduring power of the Gospel.