FAQ

An unequivocal answer to this question cannot be given. The Romans, who widely practiced execution by crucifixion, utilized several varieties of instruments of execution.

A T-shaped cross was frequently used. In this case, the transverse beam rested upon the top of the post. The hands of the condemned were nailed or bound to the crossbeam, and this could be done at the place where the sentence was pronounced, before a large gathering of people. After this, the condemned carried the crossbeam (or rather, walked while bound to it) to the actual place of execution. The vertical post in this case could be permanently dug into the ground, usually outside the city walls, where the place of execution was supposed to be located according to Roman customs. Such a post could be used multiple times. The crossbeam was hoisted onto the post together with the condemned to execution.

However, the fact that Simon of Cyrene bore the Cross of the Savior for part of the way gives cause to doubt that a T-shaped cross was used in this instance. After all, if the Lord's hands were already nailed to the crossbeam, it would have been impossible to transfer the Cross to Simon. Furthermore, there had to be space above the crossbeam where those who crucified Him could affix the inscription written by Pilate.

Therefore, it is more probable that a +-shaped cross was used, in which the crossbeam was notched into the post and tightly bound. Such a cross might not have been erected in advance; it more often had a footrest (the presence of which is implied by the Evangelists' account of the breaking of the legs of those crucified with Christ). In this case, the condemned to execution was fastened to the cross directly at the place of execution, and he would have had to carry either the crossbeam or both timbers (the crossbeam and the post), which was especially arduous.

Since the Romans could utilize "available materials," the cross could theoretically have taken another form, especially in a country poor in timber. In such cases, any branching tree could be used, so crosses were sometimes X-shaped (the so-called St. Andrew's cross: upon such a cross, according to tradition, the Apostle Andrew was crucified) and even Y-shaped. However, the testimonies of the Evangelists indicate more likely a +-shaped cross. In any case, such is the ancient tradition of the Church, and there are no grounds to distrust it.