January 27, 2017

A 14th Century Description of the Tomb of St. John Chrysostom


“The Tomb of Saint John Chrysostom, however, is at the high altar in the sanctuary of Hagia Sophia, and is covered with a slab worked in gold and precious stones. [His body] was still whole, and reposes there as if [he were] alive. There is nothing dismal about his vestments or hair, but to this day [the body] exudes a strong sweet fragrance. A large concourse gathers on his festival, not only Christians, but Franks and Latins too, and much healing and forgiveness comes.”

- From the Russian text "Anonymous Description of Constantinople"