1st-century AD calcaneus bone pierced by an 11.5 cm iron nail providing direct forensic proof of Roman crucifixion
The right heel bone (calcaneus) of a young Jewish male named Yehohanan ben Hagkol excavated inside a carved limestone ossuary, with an 11.5 cm Roman iron nail still embedded through the side of the heel with fragments of olive wood attached.
Rigorous 4-part empirical analysis separating ancient text from bias and consensus
Forensic osteological examination by Dr. Nicu Haas and Joseph Zias proved that the iron spike was driven through an acacia/olive wood washer, through the right calcaneus into an olive wood cross upright; the tip bent upon hitting a knot, preventing removal from the bone.
Provides direct physical proof of the Roman practice of nail-piercing crucifixion described in John 20:25 ('Unless I see in his hands the mark of the nails') and Luke 24:39, and refutes skeptical arguments that crucified victims were never permitted honorable burial in Jewish family tombs.
Re-examination by Zias and Sekeles (1985) refined Haas's initial reconstruction: the feet were nailed separately to either side of the vertical stipes rather than overlapping.
Forensic osteological human remains from a stratified chamber tomb; unassailable physical evidence.