Archaeologists recently uncovered a Christian tomb more than 1800 years old in Turkey, which features a mural believed to be the earliest known representation of Jesus. This remarkable fresco, found in an underground burial chamber, portrays Jesus as the 'Good Shepherd'—an image that predates the widely recognized depictions of the crucified or enthroned Christ. The tomb was located in the Hisardere necropolis, near İznik, historically known as Nicæa, an area significant for the early development of Christianity.

The dating of the tomb places it between the late 2nd century and early 3rd century, a time when Christianity was not yet an official religion of the Roman Empire, leading to practices that were often conducted in secrecy. The well-preserved frescoes on the walls of the burial chamber provide invaluable insight into early Christian iconography and the beliefs that permeated the community during this formative period.

This discovery not only sheds light on the visual culture of early Christianity but also marks a significant archaeological finding that emphasizes the importance of the Hisardere necropolis. The depiction of Jesus as the 'Good Shepherd' is essential in understanding the theological narratives that were prevalent in the history of the Christian faith, suggesting a community that held firm to its beliefs during times of persecution and secrecy.