Archaeologists have uncovered what is now regarded as the oldest known evidence of Christianity north of the Alps.
The artifact, a 1,750-year-old silver amulet, contains an inscribed scroll referencing Saint Titus, a disciple of the Apostle Paul, and prayers to Jesus Christ.
The “Frankfurt Silver Inscription” was discovered in a Roman grave dated to between 230 and 270 AD. The amulet, buried with the remains of a man aged 35 to 45, was found alongside a clay jug and an incense burner. Advanced computer technology was used to digitally unroll the fragile silver foil inside, revealing 18 lines of Latin text.
The inscription includes the phrase “Holy, holy, holy!” and a quote from Paul’s letter to the Philippians. The presence of Saint Titus in the text is also particularly significant, as it shows the Church’s early practice of venerating the saints within as early as two centuries of Christ’s death. The man buried with the amulet likely wore it for protection and as an expression of his faith, despite the risks of openly practicing Christianity during this period.
The site, a Roman cemetery, once belonged to a significant administrative center in the Roman Empire. Researchers believe this discovery alters assumptions about Christianity’s reach and influence in northern Europe during the third century.
Further studies, including isotope analysis of the man’s remains, are underway to learn more about his origins and the extent of early Catholic practices in the region.
Photo credit: Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons, Shaiith / Shutterstock.com
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