The history of the Shroud of Turin, believed by many to be the burial cloth of Jesus, is extensive and multifaceted, spanning several centuries and involving numerous significant figures. It began in 1349 when French knight Geoffrey de Charny petitioned Pope Clement VI to build a church in Lirey, France, likely to house the Shroud he possessed. By 1355, the first recorded public exhibition of the Shroud drew pilgrims, although Bishop Henri of Troyes subsequently doubted its authenticity, prompting attempts to curtail its exposure.
Following de Charny’s death in 1356, the Shroud remained within the family until Bishop Pierre d’Arcis raised concerns about its supposed authenticity in 1389. As time progressed, the Shroud experienced numerous relocations and varied ownership, including an episode in 1478 where it was moved due to political turmoil.
In 1532, a fire damaged the Shroud, and it underwent restoration efforts. The Shroud’s notable history continued with Pope Paul II elevating the Chapel in Chambéry, where it was housed, to a collegiate church. The Shroud’s fame further increased due to various public showings in the following centuries, attracting immense crowds and notable figures, including Pope John Paul II.
The 1988 carbon dating tests declared the Shroud to be of medieval origin, which led to significant debate and divide among scholars and the public regarding its authenticity. Despite this, many continue to explore the Shroud’s origins and significance, with scientific advancements, religious interest, and historical inquiry entwined in its narrative. Notable figures in the ongoing study of the Shroud have passed away in recent years, signifying an era of transition in Shroud scholarship. The Shroud continues to evoke intrigue and devotion, positioned at the crossroads of faith and science.