These images are very interesting. They give you a sense of what the Apostles really looked like
-
The Apostle John
Photograph by Pier Paolo Cito, AP
A newfound painting of the Apostle John (pictured in an underground Roman tomb on Tuesday) is among the oldest known depictions of some of the original 12 Christian Apostles, experts say.
The Santa Tecla catacombs—situated beneath an office building in Rome's Ostiense area—contain fourth-century-A.D. paintings of the Apostles Paul, Peter, John, and Andrew, who were early followers of Jesus Christ.
(See: "St. Paul's Tomb Unearthed in Rome.")
The ancient art was revealed by lasers that burned off inches of calcium carbonate, which had accumulated on the paintings over the centuries in the humid chamber, according to Italian news reports.
The two-year restoration effort cost the Vatican—which maintains the catacombs—some $73,400 (60,000 Euros).—Brian Handwerk
Published June 24, 2010
-
Catacomb Painting
Photograph by Pier Paolo Cito, AP
Paintings adorn the walls and ceiling of a Roman tomb (pictured Tuesday) where the oldest known icons of the Apostles were recently discovered.
Experts believe the Apostle depictions were painted to watch over the remains of a devout Roman noblewoman buried in the tomb, according to Italian news reports.
(Related: "Ancient Cult Chapels, Egyptian Noblewoman's Tomb Found.")
Early Christians—as well as other faiths—buried their dead in extensive networks of catacombs outside Rome.Published June 24, 2010
-
Catacomb Fresco
Photograph by Pier Paolo Cito, AP
Catacomb archaeological superintendent Fabrizio Bisconti describes frescoes found in the Santa Tecla catacombs on Tuesday.
In 2009 the Vatican announced that the oldest known icon of the Apostle Paul had been found on the catacomb's ceiling.
New laser-restoration efforts have revealed that Paul's image is part of a larger work that also includes the Apostles Peter, John, and Andrew—as well as Christ himself, depicted as the Good Shepherd, according to Italian news reports.
Restorers also discovered more artwork, including the frescoes. (See picture: "'Last Supper' Explodes Into Hi-Res.")
"I think the way they're positioned indicates a devotional dimension," Bernard P. Prusak, chair of Theology and Religious Studies at Villanova University in Pennsylvania, said in an interview.
Published June 24, 2010
-
The Good Shepherd
Photograph by Pier Paolo Cito, AP
An image of Christ as the Good Shepherd (pictured Tuesday) centers a square painting that also features iconic likenesses of four Apostles at its corners.
Villanova's Prusak noted that these four Apostles represent a rather odd grouping because they're not closely associated in the Gospels. But there's no doubt why Peter and Paul were included.
"The two important figures for Rome were Peter and Paul, who were both said to have died in Rome," he explained, "so [their images in the tomb] is a clear connection to the city."
Published June 24, 2010
From the Archives
Trending News
-
Mystery of Deadly Volcanic Eruption Solved?
Using ice cores, geochemistry, tree rings, and ancient texts, scientists discover which volcano erupted in the 13th century with worldwide effects.
-
First Cloud Map of Exoplanet
For the first time, astronomers can forecast cloudy skies on a distant exoplanet.
-
First Face Found—On a Fish
The extinct animal's face structure could help explain how vertebrates, including people, evolved our distinctive look.
Advertisement
Connect With Nat Geo
Got Something to Share?
Special Ad Section
Great Energy Challenge Blog
Sustainable Earth
-
Help Save the Colorado River
NG's new Change the Course campaign launches.
-
New Models for Fishing
Future of Fish is helping fishermen improve their bottom line while better managing stocks for the future.
-
Can Pesticides Grow Organic Crops?
The Change Reaction blog investigates in California.
