The Magazine

The Incorruptibles

The bodies of many medieval Catholic saints and martyrs have resisted decay for centuries— just the sort of mystery that begs for scientific inquiry

By Heather Pringle and Bastienne Schmidt

Jun 1, 2001 5:00 AMNov 12, 2019 4:33 AM

Discover’s permission to post this article online has expired.To order a back issue, contact CDS Fullfillment by emailing DCRcustserv@CDSfulfillment.comor calling 1.800.829.9132.

archaeology

1 free article left

Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

1 free articleSubscribe

Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Already a subscriber?

More From Discover

Planet Earth

"Great" May Be Gone From the Name, But These 10 White Shark Facts Are Pretty Killer

Planet Earth

Yellowstone Hot Springs Create Perfect Environment for Ancient Microbes

Planet Earth

Could Yellowstone National Park Visitors See New Thermal Feature Again This Summer?

Planet Earth

Ancient Scottish Salamander is 14 Million Years Older Than Previously Thought

Planet Earth

3D-Printed Insects Help Scientists Unlock the Secrets of Animal Mimicry

Planet Earth

Volcanic Alert Systems Helped Keep People Safe During Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki Eruption

Stay Curious

Join

Our List

View our privacy policy

To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

The Magazine About Discover Privacy Policy Subscribe Advertise Newsletter Terms of Use Customer Service Contact Copyright Policy Correction Policy Our Staff Transparency

Website Accessibility