Rare Christian Cross Discovered in UAE
A remarkable find in the United Arab Emirates has illuminated aspects of Christian history from the early days of Islam. Archaeologists recently unearthed a cross on Ir Baniyas Island, located in the Persian Gulf. This discovery was officially announced in August by the Cultural and Tourism Bureau of Abu Dhabi.
Despite its remote location, the island, known for its luxury resorts and wildlife sanctuaries, is reachable via water taxi or private aircraft. This excavation marks the first work on the island in three decades, leading to the discovery of the cross, believed to be associated with a local Christian monastery constructed between the 7th and 8th centuries.
Officials described the artifact as a “plaster plaque,” likely used by monks for spiritual reflection. Photographs reveal that the plaque had deteriorated over time, complicating its reconstruction. The monastery was part of a larger complex, which included a church and a retreat for senior monks seeking contemplation and isolation.
Interestingly, the cross’s design shares similarities with artifacts found in Iraq and Kuwait, linking it to Eastern churches in ancient Iraq. Between 300 and 500 AD, Christianity spread across the Arabian Peninsula, coexisting with Islamic conquests in modern-day Abu Dhabi.
Authorities indicated that the monastery was “peacefully abandoned” before 800 AD. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of the Cultural and Tourism Division, praised the finding as a testament to the UAE’s enduring values of coexistence and cultural openness. He noted that it evokes a sense of pride and serves as a reminder that peaceful coexistence has deep roots in the region’s history.
The sites of both the Baniyas Church and the monastery are now accessible to the public, offering Christian visitors a chance to connect with their historical heritage. Alongside the reconstruction efforts, a small collection of artifacts from prior excavations, including glass blocks and cross-shaped stuccos, has been showcased.
More discoveries related to early Christian artifacts are continually being made, capturing the interest of archaeologists globally. In a recent unveiling in Egypt, officials announced the discovery of two Christian churches, with one featuring a mural of Jesus, dating back over 1,500 years.
