A cloth said to bear the image of Jesus' face, imprinted when Saint Veronica wiped His face during the Way of the Cross. It is one of the most famous acheiropoieta (images not made by human hands).
History
The legend of Veronica's Veil dates to at least the 4th century. The cloth was kept in Rome's Old St. Peter's Basilica from the 8th century. It became one of the 'Mirabilia Urbis Romae' (Wonders of Rome) and was displayed during jubilee years. The relic is now kept in a pillar of St. Peter's Basilica, though it is rarely displayed publicly.
Scientific Investigation
The relic has not been subjected to modern scientific analysis due to its restricted access. Some scholars identify it with the Image of Edessa (Mandylion), while others consider them separate relics. The Manoppello image (also in the database) is sometimes proposed as the original Veronica.
Spiritual Significance
The Veil of Veronica represents an act of compassion toward the suffering Christ. The Stations of the Cross include Veronica's encounter as the Sixth Station. The name 'Veronica' itself may derive from 'vera icon' (true image).
