Shroud of Turin - Britannica Overview

Introduction

The Shroud of Turin is a length of linen believed to be the burial garment of Jesus Christ.
Preserved since 1578 in the Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista, Turin, Italy.
It is both a subject of debate over its authenticity and an object of devotion.

The shroud measures 4.3 meters long by 1.1 meters wide.
Contains faint brownish images of the front and back of a man, presumed to be Jesus.
Includes markings corresponding to crucifixion wounds such as thorn marks, lacerations, and bloodstains.

First historical record in 1354 with Geoffroi de Charnay.
In 1389, denounced as false by the local bishop of Troyes.
Avignon antipope Clement VII permitted its exhibition as a representation.
Subsequent popes accepted its authenticity.
Damaged by fire and water in Chambéry in 1532; moved to Turin in 1578.
Public displays have been rare, but notable ones include 1931, 1978, 1998, 2000, and a pilgrim visit by Pope Francis in 2015.

Scientific studies have been conducted since the late 19th century.
1898 discovery of the image resembling photographic negatives.
1970s tests for paints or pigments were inconclusive.
1988 carbon-14 dating suggested the cloth dates between 1260 and 1390.
Doubts raised about methodology; Vatican's stance encourages veneration but does not confirm authenticity.
2022 study using X-ray scattering found linen's degradation consistent with ancient samples, suggesting potential authenticity.

The Shroud of Turin remains a topic of scientific investigation and religious veneration.
New studies continue to influence the debate on its authenticity, though definitive conclusions are elusive.