Turkey: archaeologists uncover ancient Jesus fresco in tomb

Archaeologists in Turkey have uncovered a significant find from Anatolia's early Christian era: a fresco depicting Jesus as the "Good Shepherd" with Roman characteristics.

The fresco was discovered in August in an underground tomb near Iznik, a town in northwestern Turkey known for its role in the adoption of the Nicene Creed in A.D. 325. The tomb, located in the village of Hisardere, is believed to date back to the 3rd century, a period when Christians faced persecution in the Roman Empire. The fresco shows a youthful, clean-shaven Jesus dressed in a toga, carrying a goat across his shoulders.

Researchers have noted that this fresco is one of the rare instances in Anatolia where Jesus is portrayed with Roman attributes. Before the cross became a universal symbol of Christianity, the Good Shepherd motif was significant in expressing themes of protection, salvation, and divine guidance. Although central to early Christianity, few examples of the Good Shepherd have been found in Anatolia, with the Hisardere fresco being the best preserved.

Lead archaeologist Gulsen Kutbay described the artwork as potentially the "only example of its kind in Anatolia." The tomb also features bird and plant motifs, along with portraits of noble men and women accompanied by slave attendants. The excavation revealed the skeletons of five individuals, though poor preservation prevented the identification of two. The others included two young adults and a six-month-old infant.

Historical Context and Recent Developments

Pope Leo XIV visited Iznik last month to commemorate the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea. During his visit, he was presented with a tile painting of the Good Shepherd discovery by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Anatolia has been a site of key moments in Christian history, including being the birthplace of St. Paul and the final residence of St. John and possibly the Virgin Mary.

Based on reporting by Africanews.