The Spear of Destiny (aka the Holy Lance or Lance of Longinus)
It’s fair to say that its true location and authenticity remain a matter of faith and debate.
If you are unfamiliar with the Spear of Destiny, here’s all you really need to know. This legendary relic is said to have pierced the side of Jesus Christ during the last moments of His Crucifixion. However currently, there are three reputed relics that stake the claim of being the “real” Spear of Destiny and the Vatican does NOT claim authenticity for any of them.
Charlemagne, the first Holy Roman Emperor, is believed to have personally wielded the Spear of Destiny on 47 successful military campaigns in the 8th and 9th centuries.
It’s important to note that Charlemagne’s accounts are based on legend and belief. The actual existence and powers of the Spear of Destiny are a matter of faith and interpretation.
What Powers did the Spear of Destiny Possess?
The Spear of Destiny pierced the side of Jesus Christ during his crucifixion and this act is said to have imbued the spear with immense power.
In various traditions and legends, the Spear of Destiny is quite often said to be the key to world power. Whomever possesses the Spear of Destiny will have the ability to command and conquer unopposed.
There were others besides Charlemagne the Holy Emperor who claimed to have wielded the Spear of Destiny:
- Constantine the Great— who brought Christianity out of obscurity and made it the dominant religion in Europe.
- Justinian— a Byzantine emperor.
- Charles Martel— a Frankish statesman and military leader.
- Henry the Fowler— an early German king.
- Frederick Barbarossa— Holy Roman Emperor in the second half of the 12th century.
- Alaric the Visigoth— who famously sacked Rome in 410 AD.
- Theodosius — a Roman Emperor.
PLEASE NOTE:
These individuals are all said to have possessed the spear at one time or another, according to various legends and traditions. However, it’s important to note that these accounts are based on legend and belief. The actual existence and powers of the Spear of Destiny are a matter of faith and interpretation.
Where is the Spear of Destiny now?
Considering that there are experts out there that believe the Spear of Destiny could be one of the three that’s thought to be the “real deal” are all located at different places throughout the world.
One is located below the dome of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and was given to Pope Innocent VIII in 1492 after the Turkish conquest of Constantinople.
The second one is displayed in the Imperial Treasury at the Hofburg Palace in Vienna.
And the third one is preserved in Vagharshapat, Armenia, and legend holds that it was brought by St. Jude the Apostle.