The cause of its image is still unknown...it's most definitely not a painting; in fact, there's no evidence of anything done by human hand to create the image it bears. It's an enigma...a very important one, since if the image on it is really the likeness of Jesus of Nazareth, then the Shroud of Turin contains the only authentic description of him that exists. For this reason, it's been the subject of serious inquiry, uninformed speculation and heated debate for hundreds of years. Finally, researchers may be getting closer to unravelling its secrets.
The Shroud of Turin Center was established to promote an increase in awareness and understanding of the Shroud of Turin and conduct research into its origins. To accomplish its educational goals, the Center holds periodic multimedia presentations about the Shroud which feature the Center's full-sized black & white negative and color positive images of the Shroud. The Center also conducts presentations off-site for interested organizations. Please see our sign-up section on the Options menu if you wish to schedule a presentation for your group.
In June of 1999, the Shroud Center was the host of the 1999 Shroud of Turin International Research Conference which gathered more than 30 researchers from around the world to discuss their latest findings. In addition, members of the Center are actively engaged in research on various fields related to the Shroud. Check the Menu for some of our recent research.
For those who wish to visit the Shroud of Turin Center at Mary Mother of the Church Abbey in Richmond, we have provided a map detailing directions...
Travelers from the Richmond International Airport should follow the I-64 directions (from the Virginia Beach direction) to reach the Abbey.
Last updated 02/15/01