The Bogolyubov Icon of the Mother of God, one of Russia’s oldest wonderworking icons, was painted in the 12th century at the request of Prince Andrew Bogolyubsky after the Mother of God appeared to him. Originally from Constantinople, the icon was brought to Vyshgorod in 1131 and housed in the Devichii Monastery.

In 1155, Prince Andrew secretly took the icon north toward Suzdal. Near Vladimir, the cart carrying it stopped and could not be moved. After fervent prayer, the Mother of God appeared to Andrew, instructing him to build a church and monastery at the site in honor of her Nativity. This vision led to the creation of the Bogolyubov Icon, showing the Theotokos with a scroll in her right hand and her face turned to Christ.

The city and monastery founded there were named Bogolyubovo ("God-loving") by the prince, who also became known as Bogolyubsky. The icon remained there until the Dormition Cathedral in Vladimir was completed.

The icon has been credited with many miracles and became widely venerated. In 1771, a feast was established on May 21 to commemorate the end of a plague after the icon was brought to Vladimir. Before the Russian Revolution, it was ceremoniously transferred to Vladimir annually from May 21 to July 16.

A notable variant, the Moscow Bogolyubov Icon (1157), includes depictions of many saints, reflecting its deep spiritual significance.