Early release. The register is a draft gathered on September 22, 2026 and not yet verified. Photographs are added as custodians give permission.How the draft was built
Saints & ScienceThe record of the incorrupt saints
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Case 006 · Incorruption · Vatican City, Vatican City · In preparation

The body of Pope St. John XXIII

The case popular lists get wrong. The anatomist Gennaro Goglia embalmed the body after his death on June 3, 1963. When the coffin was opened in January 2001 the face was found intact, and a thin layer of wax was applied to the face and hands before the body went on view.

ChurchNot treated as a miracleEvidence grade to set
Whole bodyEmbalmed, 1963Wax on face and hands, 2001

Full case file in preparation

This entry shows what the research has confirmed so far. The evidence grade is set during the research.

Reviewed September 21, 2026.

St. Peter's BasilicaCredit printed here once the licensed photograph is added

What the full case file will cover

  • Every recognition of the remains, with its date, physicians, and findings.
  • Every intervention, with its date, who made it, and its source.
  • The natural explanations considered and what remains open.
  • Photographs that the custodian permits, each with its credit.

Sources for this entry

  1. The Irish Times: Pope's body displayed to faithful in special homage

Continue to Case 007: The body of St. Pio of Pietrelcina

Feast day: October 11.

Continue to Case 007