Textile experts say there are particles of Egyptian cotton indicating a Mideast origin. Botanists say the pollen on the Shroud is from Israel and surrounding areas. Microscopists say limestone particles are similar to the hills around Jerusalem. Photographers say the image is a negative that becomes positive only in a photonegative. DNA experts say there is evidence of human genomes found from blood cells.
Historians say there is a written record back to at least the sixth century.
Image experts say the Shroud was the prototype for all Byzantine icons beginning in the 6th century. Anthropologists say the man appears to be a Semitic Jew from 30 to 40 years of age. Jewish scholars say the Shroud is consistent with first century Jewish burial practices. Archaeologists say the Shroud shows details of crucifixion unknown in the Middle Ages. Coroners say the body shows evidence of rigor mortis.