Holy Shroud of Turin (Sacra Sindone)

The Basics

The 53-square-foot (5-square-meter) Holy Shroud, displayed in a quiet 17th-century chapel designed by Guarino Guarini, architect of the nearby Real Chiesa di San Lorenzo, bears the faded image of a thin, bearded man who appears to have wounds consistent with Biblical tellings of those suffered by Christ at his execution. Historians and scholars have questioned the antique relic’s authenticity—never officially recognized by the Catholic Church—for years, and the Duomo has gone to great lengths to preserve it. The contentious shroud is one of the highlights of Piedmont’s capital city, and a viewing is included in many Turin small-group walking tours along with the Royal Palace (Palazzo Reale), Piazza Castello, and Mole Antonelliana. Because of its age and delicacy, the shroud is stored in a climate-controlled case filled with a special atmospheric mix of argon and oxygen, and is rarely displayed to the public; in its stead, the church shows video footage of the original. The last public showing of the actual Holy Shroud was in 2015.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Showings of the original Holy Shroud are well publicized in advance, and tickets go quickly—book ahead of time.

• The Shroud is particularly fascinating for religious pilgrims or archaeology aficionados.

• The Guarini Chapel is currently closed for restoration, and video footage is being shown in another side chapel of the Cathedral.

• Visitors are allowed to take photographs inside the chapel and Duomo.

How to Get There

The Turin Cathedral, or Duomo di Torino, is located in the Piazza Castello district, a short walk from the train station. It’s easy to arrange a Turin day trip from the nearby city of Milan by taking the high-speed train that runs between these two Italian regional capitals.

When to Get There

The Duomo is most crowded when the original Holy Shroud is being displayed to the public, and tickets to these showings must be booked far in advance. Hours are daily from 7am (Sundays from 8am) to 12:30pm and again from 3pm to 7pm.

The Duomo di Torino

Most visit the Duomo di Torino primarily to view the Holy Shroud, but the church itself is worth a look. Built at the end of the 15th century, the Renaissance Cathedral is attached to the original bell tower from 1469.

Can visitors see a replica or digital representation of the Holy Shroud of Turin (Sacra Sindone) when it is not on display?

Yes, the Holy Shroud of Turin (Sacra Sindone) is rarely displayed to the public—only replicas and representations of the Shroud can be seen inside the cathedral. Still, these artifacts explain the history of the Shroud and explore the forensic examination that’s been carried out to evaluate its authenticity.

Where is the Holy Shroud of Turin located, and how can visitors get there?

The Holy Shroud of Turin is housed in the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist (Cattedrale di San Giovanni Battista or Duomo di Torino) in Turin, located at Piazza San Giovanni, between the Duomo and Diocesan Museum of Turin. It’s accessible on foot from the center of the city, as well as by bus or tram from the Duomo (Musei Reali stop).

What is the history and origin of the Holy Shroud of Turin?

The origin and authenticity of the Holy Shroud of Turin has been subject to speculation for years, as its scientific and reported histories are not conclusive. One belief is that the piece of linen—baring the faded outline of a man—covered Jesus Christ following his crucifixion, with markings indicating his wounds. Historical records first reference the Shroud in the 13th century.

How often is the Holy Shroud of Turin displayed to the public?

The Holy Shroud of Turin is rarely displayed to the public, with the most recent public viewings taking place in 1998, 2000, and 2010. While there’s a chance for future displays, it’s an uncommon event and the vast majority of visitors will only see the replica.

Is photography allowed when viewing the Holy Shroud of Turin?

No, you cannot photograph the Holy Shroud of Turin—it is kept away from public display due to its delicacy and significance. You can take photos of the digital replica.

Are there any restrictions or dress code requirements for viewing the Holy Shroud of Turin?

As an active cathedral, anyone visiting the Holy Shroud of Turin should dress appropriately for a place of worship. Wear closed-toed shoes, remove your hat, and consider dressing in long pants. Also, make sure you behave in a respectable manner.