True Cross

Giotto_Crucifixion

Piero_della_Francesca_011

Agnolo_Gaddi_True_Cross_Detail_1380

Piero_della_Francesca_003

Tres_Riches_Heures_Jean_de_Colombe_true_Cross

5281-20080123-jerusalem-holy-sepulchre-treasure

Reliquary_True_Cross_c800_Byzantine

True Cross

The True Cross is the name for the physical remnants believed to be from the actual cross upon which Jesus was crucified. According to Christian tradition, the True Cross was discovered by Saint Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine, during her pilgrimage to Jerusalem in the early 4th century.

Discovery

The discovery of the True Cross is attributed to Saint Helena, who is said to have found it during her pilgrimage to Jerusalem around 326 AD. According to legend, she discovered three crosses at the site of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and through a miracle, identified the True Cross. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre was built on the site where Jesus was believed to have been crucified and buried.

Relics

Over the centuries, fragments of the True Cross have been distributed as relics to various churches and individuals. These relics have been venerated by Christians and are considered to have miraculous powers. Some of the most notable relics of the True Cross are housed in the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem in Rome, the Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liébana in Spain, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem.

Historical Significance

The True Cross holds immense significance in Christianity, symbolizing the sacrifice of Jesus and the redemption of humanity. It has been a central symbol in Christian art, literature, and theology. The veneration of the True Cross has also played a significant role in the development of Christian liturgy and devotional practices.

Controversies and Skepticism

The authenticity of the relics of the True Cross has been a subject of debate among historians and theologians. Some argue that the proliferation of relics claiming to be from the True Cross is evidence of their dubious authenticity. Others maintain that the veneration of these relics, regardless of their authenticity, holds spiritual significance for believers.

Related Pages

• Jesus
• Saint Helena
• Emperor Constantine
• Church of the Holy Sepulchre
• Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem
• Monastery of Santo Toribio de Liébana
• Christianity
• Relics