Photo: Csapó József/Magyar Kurír
The original icon of Máriapócs is itself a replica, painted after the first weeping icon had been taken to Vienna. In 1715, the replica wept as well. For the Holy Father, a reproduction of this second icon was painted, in almost the same size as the original, 50x70 cm. It was made on wood panel, with acrylic technique, using real gold leaf and embossing on the halo, which was received by the original after the restoration. This icon is important to Greek and Roman Catholics alike, and giving it as a gift to Pope Francis expresses the love with which the Virgin Mary protects the Hungarian people through her miracles.