Fragments of wood claimed to be from the cross on which Jesus was crucified. Hundreds of fragments exist across Europe.
History
According to tradition, the True Cross was discovered by Helena, mother of Constantine the Great, during a pilgrimage to Jerusalem around 326 AD. The largest fragments are at Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, Rome, which also houses the INRI inscription tablet.
Scientific Investigation
Various fragments have been tested with mixed results. The wood has been identified as pine and olive wood. Calvin's famous claim that all fragments together would fill a ship has been debunked — Charles Rohault de Fleury calculated in 1870 that all known fragments total less than one-third of a cross.
Spiritual Significance
The most widely distributed relic in Christianity, found in churches worldwide.
