Sacred history has been uncovered.
In December 2023, archaeologists in Germany revealed the discovery of an ancient amulet containing a silver scroll, identified as the oldest physical evidence of Christianity north of the Alps. The find, made in 2018 during the excavation of a Roman-era grave in Frankfurt, dates back to between 230 and 270 A.D. The grave contained an amulet that proved difficult to study due to its fragile condition.
Initial attempts to examine the scroll were unsuccessful because it was too delicate to unroll by hand. Researchers then turned to advanced methods like X-rays and microscopes but faced continued challenges in reading the text. Ultimately, they employed computed tomography (CT), a 3D X-ray technique that allowed them to digitally “unroll” the scroll without physical contact. This innovative approach revealed 18 lines of Latin text, which were carefully translated over several months.
The inscription found on the scroll includes praises for Jesus Christ and prayers asking for protection for His followers, reflecting the personal devotion of the individual buried in the grave. This suggests that the amulet may have been worn for spiritual protection, much like Jewish phylacteries. While the grave likely belonged to a Christian man, it is unclear whether he openly practiced his faith, given the potential risks of doing so during the Roman Empire’s rule.
This discovery is significant because it predates previous evidence of Christianity in the region, which was believed to date from around 300 A.D. It provides new insights into early Christian practices in northern Europe, particularly in light of the challenges faced by early Christians in maintaining their faith in a predominantly non-Christian society. The amulet’s inscription offers a rare glimpse into the devotion of early Christians in the region.
The discovery has sparked renewed interest and discussion among archaeologists, historians, and theologians regarding the spread of Christianity in northern Europe. Photographs of the amulet and the fully deciphered scroll have been shared by city officials, emphasizing the historical importance of the find in understanding the early religious landscape of the region.