Ancient Christian amulet in Germany reshapes Roman history

Researchers uncovered the silver amulet in the grave of a man buried between AD 230 and 270 on the outskirts of Frankfurt. The amulet, containing a thin silver foil, is the oldest evidence of Christianity north of the Alps. This discovery could transform understanding of Christian practices in the Roman Empire.

The amulet, measuring just 3.5 centimetres, was found beneath the deceased's chin, suggesting it was worn around his neck. It featured an unusual Latin inscription, which is rare as such inscriptions were typically in Greek or Hebrew. The inscription refers to Jesus Christ and the Christian God and reads:

"(In the name?) of St Titus.

Holy, holy, holy!In the name of Jesus Christ, Son of God!

The Lord of the WorldResists (to the best of his ability?)

All attacks(?)/setbacks(?).

The God(?) grants the well-being

Entry.

This means of salvation(?) protects

The human being who Surrenders to the will

Of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God,

Since before Jesus Christ

All knees bow to Jesus Christ: the heavenly

The earthly and

The subterranean

and every tongue Confess (to Jesus Christ)."

The discovery of the amulet in Germany is noteworthy because such objects were common in late antiquity, especially in the eastern Mediterranean region, but rarely found in the western Roman world. This suggests that Christian ideas were spreading to areas far from the early centres of Christianity.

Experts from the Leibniz Center for Archaeology in Mainz worked for several years on the conservation and analysis of the amulet. Scientists succeeded in creating a virtual 3D model, which enabled them to read the inscription. Markus Scholz from Goethe University in Frankfurt highlights that the inscription is unique.

A similar amulet was discovered in 2023 in Bulgaria, indicating the need for early Christians to conceal their faith. However, the amulet from Frankfurt is unique because it contains no references to other beliefs, making it purely Christian.

The "Frankfurt inscription" is a scientific sensation that could push back the history of Christianity in the region by 50 to 100 years. It is the first Christian find north of the Alps, which is a point of pride for Frankfurt, especially during the holiday season, notes the city's mayor, Mike Josef.