Photo: Antakya Archaeological Museum

This wooden monumental cross dates from the sixth century AD and is one of the largest to survive from the early Byzantine period. It was reportedly found in Antioch in 1910 along with the other works of the "Antioch Treasure," which included the famous Antioch Chalice. The Greek inscriptions on the cross translate as follows:

Front (shown): "God is Holy, the All-Powerful is Holy, the immortal is Holy, Have mercy on us."
Back: "In fulfillment of a vow of Herodotos and Komitas [sons] of Pantaleon."

The inscription on the front is especially interesting, as it is the Trisagion, the "thrice-holy" hymn referring to the Trinity that the Monophysites argued was developed in Antioch. The inscription on the back indicates the cross was a gift in fulfillment of a vow; many Byzantine crosses carry similar dedicatory inscriptions. Archaeological evidence in Syria suggests that monumental crosses were mounted to be displayed before church altars. This cross may have been similarly located if, as recently suggested, it was part of the treasure of the city of Kaper Koraon. If this cross was carried in church processions, its weight may have required the support of two men, as shown in a silver plaque from the Antioch Treasure that is now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The crossing of the two arms on each side was originally decorated with once-gilded medallions of busts of Christ, which are now in the Louvre (see the next photo). Sixth century AD, Antioch or Kaper Koraeon. Silver over wood, 58.5 in. x 38.5 in. Purchased from the Kouchakji Frères in 1950. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, Fletcher Fund, 1950, inv. 50.5.3. Information from Antioch: The Lost Ancient City by Christine Kondoleon, 216.

Travel Resources

• Antioch Map - our detailed interactive map of Antioch, plus hand-picked links to more
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• Antioch Restaurant Reviews - the best places to eat in town