The claims
Each entry pairs a reported miracle with the documentary record and an honest, confidence-labeled estimate of how likely it is that no natural explanation accounts for it.
3 claims
2% authentic
Strong natural explanation
When a sarcophagus believed to contain Saint Cecilia was opened in 1599, witnesses reported finding a body in a distinctive position; sculptor Stefano Maderno created an exact marble replica — but no witness actually saw her face, and historians dispute the account.
Unprovenrelics·Basilica of Santa Cecilia in Trastevere, Rome, Italy
Saint Cecilia — The 1599 Discovery and Maderno's Sculpture
When a sarcophagus believed to contain Saint Cecilia was opened in 1599, witnesses reported finding a body in a distinctive position; sculptor Stefano Maderno created an exact marble replica — but no witness actually saw her face, and historians dispute the account.
3% authenticStrong natural explanation
Silvan, claimed to be the oldest incorrupt body in the Catholic Church, is on display at a Croatian church; skeptical examination reveals the 'body' is a wax sculpture with painted features, glued-on eyebrows and wig, and artificially shallow nostrils and ear canals.
Disprovenrelics·Church of St. Blaise, Dubrovnik area, Croatia
Saint Silvan — Oldest 'Incorrupt' Body Is Actually a Wax Sculpture
Silvan, claimed to be the oldest incorrupt body in the Catholic Church, is on display at a Croatian church; skeptical examination reveals the 'body' is a wax sculpture with painted features, glued-on eyebrows and wig, and artificially shallow nostrils and ear canals.
9% authentic
Strong natural explanation
Roman Emperor Vespasian reportedly healed a blind man and a man with a withered limb in Alexandria c. 69 CE, as recorded by Tacitus, Suetonius, and Cassius Dio.
Unprovenhealing·Alexandria, Egypt
Vespasian's Healing Miracles in Alexandria
Roman Emperor Vespasian reportedly healed a blind man and a man with a withered limb in Alexandria c. 69 CE, as recorded by Tacitus, Suetonius, and Cassius Dio.