Archaeologists "Discover" Jesus’ Tomb (Right Where It’s Always Been)
Excavations at Jerusalem’s Church of the Holy Sepulchre reaffirm what Christians have claimed for centuries
Jerusalem—In what some might call the least shocking revelation in two millennia, archaeologists working beneath the Church of the Holy Sepulchre have uncovered evidence that aligns with the biblical account of Jesus’ burial.
The international team, led by Prof. Francesca Romana Stasolla of Sapienza University of Rome, uncovered evidence of an ancient garden near the crucifixion site—complete with olive and grape pollen, matching John’s Gospel description. The site, a former quarry later used for burials, was monumentalized by Roman Emperor St. Constantine the Great in the 4th century, who isolated the tomb long venerated as that of Christ.
Beneath the current 19th-century structure, archaeologists found a marble base believed to be from Constantine’s original aedicule, along with 4th-century coins, pottery, and bones from celebratory meals. Also found were exotic fish and Crusader-imported snails from later eras.
Archeological work began in 2022, coinciding with a broader renovation effort launched by the three authorities managing the Church—the Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem, the Custody of the Holy Land, and the Armenian Patriarchate—aimed at replacing the 19th-century flooring.
Though work is paused for Easter pilgrims, the dig is expected to resume and wrap up soon. While archaeology won’t prove the Resurrection, it sure isn't disproving the address.
