The Cenacle, located on Mt Zion, Jerusalem, and has long been thought by historians and Christians alike to be the the scene of Jesus’ Last Supper before his crucifixion. However, over the millennia, the walls of the ancient building have become worn down, making the room difficult for experts to study. The Cenacle’s degradation has been due to natural ageing, but also the fact thousands of Christians make a pilgrimage to it each year.
But researchers from the Israel Antiquities Authority has used 3D imaging to revitalise the walls and digitally bring it back to its former glory.
Archaeologist Amit Re’em told Reuters: “We managed to reach every corner of the building. We managed to create 3D models of this wonderful and sanctified place.
“We managed in one of the holiest places in Jerusalem, to use this technology and this is a breakthrough.”
The technology has helped to uncover some major secrets, including artwork which was placed on the walls and an engraved symbol of the Lion of Judah.
But perhaps the most significant find was that of an engraving of ‘Angus Dei’, a lamb that represents Jesus.
Dr Re’em added: “It tells the story of this room.
“It delivers the message of the Last (Supper) Room, Christ as a Messiah, as victorious, as a victim – and the lion, the lion is a symbol of the Davidic dynasty.
“They combine together in this room.”
Not only is the Cenacle the location of the Last Supper, which is the subject of Leonardo Da Vinci’s most famous work arguably, but it is also the where early believers supposedly encountered the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost.
Ilya Berkovich, of INZ research institute of the Austrian Academy of Sciences who worked on the project, said the project opens “incredibly new horizons”.