The Sacro Catino

In the treasury of the Cathedral of Genoa (exhibited only by an order from the municipality) is the Sacro Catino, long shown to the people as the vessel used by our Saviour at the Last Supper. Another tradition tells that it was originally given to King Solomon by the Queen of Sheba.

When Caesarea was taken by the Genoese and Pisan Crusaders, in 1101, the Genoese gave up to the Pisans all the rest of the booty on condition that the Sacro Catino was left to them.

Nothing could exceed the veneration with which it was regarded at Genoa.

Twelve knights, called "Clavigeri," were appointed as its special guard, each being responsible during one month of the year for the safety of the tabernacle which contained it. The Sacro Catino was said to have been formed from a single emerald.

In 1476 a law appeared, punishing with death any one who touched the Sacro Catino.

It was carried to Paris in 1809; and when returned, in 1815, it was broken.