Shroud of Turin to Be Displayed

The controversial Shroud of Turin, revered by some as the burial cloth of Jesus, will go on display for the first time in 20 years in Turin, Italy, from April 18 through June 14. The last time it was shown, in 1978, more than 3 million viewed it, according to news reports.

The cloth, about 14 feet long, bears the image of a crucified man. Scientists have dated it to only the Middle Ages, long after the Crucifixion, but many believers dispute that finding.

U.S. tour operators are offering packages to Turin that include air fare, hotel, some meals, lectures, sightseeing and a group audience with the pope. Among them are Carlson Wagonlit/Prime Travel in Quincy, Mass., (800) 792-5208, which charges $2,699 and up per person or a 10-night tour; and Canterbury Tours in Pawling, N.Y., (800) 653-0017, which charges $2,595 for 12 days.

Viewing the shroud is free, but you must obtain a timed ticket, and advance reservations are recommended. Call 011-39-11-464-7999 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 6 p.m., Turin time, on any day; Turin time is nine hours ahead of Los Angeles. The shroud will be displayed from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Last spring, the shroud was rescued from the Turin Cathedral, which was heavily damaged by fire. Authorities hope to restore the church to allow the display; if not, another Turin site will be found.