Archaeologists uncovered a 1,400-year-old plaque on Sir Bani Yas Island, depicting a cross with a pyramid representing Golgotha. Found among church ruins, it indicates a Christian community existed during the seventh and eighth centuries. Christianity was traditionally linked to specific regions; this find highlights a previously unknown thriving settlement in the Arabian Gulf. The discovery suggests Christianity flourished even as Islam gained influence. Artifacts, including pottery and glass, were also discovered, with the cross potentially serving as a revered object for worshipers. The find underscores a history of religious diversity in the UAE.
The cross is about 10.6 inches long, 6.7 inches wide, and roughly 0.8 inches thick. Archaeologists believe it could have been an object of veneration and placed on a wall with worshippers kneeling before it.
Every element of the cross incorporates regional motifs. It tells us that Christianity in this region was not only present but flourished, adapting visually to its local context. We had settlements of Christians that were not just existing but were clearly thriving.
A powerful testament to the UAE's profound and enduring values of coexistence and cultural openness. The find highlights a history of peaceful religious diversity in the region.
The presence of a flourishing Christian settlement on a southeastern Arabian Gulf island challenges the assumption that Christianity was fading as Islam was rising.
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