A crypt at a historic Dublin church is to re-open next week for the first time since the theft of its mummified remains.
The head of an 800-year-old mummy known as The Crusader was stolen, along with another skull, from St Michan's Church in February.
The vault has been closed to the public since it was vandalised.
It was badly damaged and several of the mummies, including the 400-year-old remains of a nun, were desecrated.
The Crusader's body was turned over and his head removed. Some of his bones were scattered outside the coffin.
Archbishop Michael Jackson and Archbishop Diarmuid Martin visited the crypt following the break-in and appealed to those responsible to examine their consciences.
Archbishop Michael Jackson (left) and Archbishop Diarmuid Martin, visiting the crypt at St Michan's Church in Dublin, Ireland.
The mummified head and the skull were recovered by gardai, from Bridewell garda station, in March, and a 35-year old man was charged.
Since then, specialists from the National Museum have been restoring the skulls.
A local undertaker made new coffins for the mummified remains and security has been increased in a bid to prevent any further break-ins.
The crypt had been previously targeted by vandals in 1996.
It will re-open to the public on Tuesday.
Stay up to date with the latest news stories from a Christian perspective. Sign up to our daily newsletter and receive more stories like this straight to your inbox every morning.
A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.
Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.
For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.
Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.
Support Us
Article by Press Association
Reporting courtesy of Press Association.
