Quick Bytes
- Archaeologists close in on the Jerusalem location of Jesus’ Last Supper.
- The site, known as the Cenacle, has been a pilgrimage destination since the 4th century.
- Advanced imaging reveals the room’s historical features, but direct evidence remains elusive.
Unveiling the Secrets of the Last Supper’s Location
Archaeologists are on the verge of a significant discovery, seeking to confirm the Jerusalem site of the Last Supper, a key event in Christian tradition.
The quest centers on the Cenacle, an ancient limestone structure with a distinctive red roof, revered as the location of Jesus’ final meal with his apostles. This site has drawn pilgrims for centuries, yet it has not been fully excavated due to its continuous use and numerous modifications over time.
Historical records, including a sixth-century map and various artworks, suggest the Cenacle’s importance to early Jewish Christians and its survival of Jerusalem’s destruction in 70 AD. The room’s description in the Gospel of Luke adds to its significance, marking it as a sacred Christian site.
In a groundbreaking 2019 study, the Israel Antiquities Authority employed laser scanning and photography to peel back layers of history, revealing ancient artwork that symbolically connects Jesus to King David. Despite these insights, the absence of direct archaeological proof leaves the Cenacle’s role as the Last Supper’s venue unconfirmed. Researchers remain hopeful that future investigations will provide clearer answers.
Image Credits
- Getty Images: Archaeologists Nearing Discovery of Jesus’ Last Supper Room.
