An icon of the Virgin Mary has been stolen from a monastery in Greece. A police operation headed by the deputy chief of national police is underway to find the 700-year-old replica.

The icon is thought to have cured the sick and protect those who believed in its powers. People believe the icon's powers will bring tragedy to both the party who stole it and the people who relied on its protection.

It also represents freedom in Greece as it was believed to help liberate the country from Turkish occupation during the 19th century.

The icon is usually kept inside the monastery of Elona. However, Orthodox Christians are celebrating the life of Christ's mother this week calling for the statue to be out on display.

Police believe a team of thieves hid in the monastery until it closed and then used a rope to remove the statue. Road blocks have been put in place, boats in nearby harbors have been searched and a popular festival has been canceled to help police capture the thieves.