Silver amulet found in Germany may reshape understanding of early Christianity in Europe
Archaeologists in Germany have discovered a small silver amulet that may change our understanding of early Christianity in Europe. Found in a 3rd-century Roman grave near Frankfurt, it contains the earliest evidence of Christianity north of the Alps. The amulet, which was buried with a man aged 35 to 45, features 18 lines of Latin text referencing Jesus and St. Titus. This discovery predates previous evidence of Christianity in the region by at least 50 years, highlighting the faith's early presence. Researchers used advanced CT scanning technology to decipher the fragile text, revealing its unique Latin inscriptions. This finding suggests a significant Christian influence in Roman Germania during a time when identifying as a Christian was risky.