When an ancient tomb is discovered in Jerusalem containing what appears to be the body of Jesus, rugged priest Father Matt Gutierrez (Antonio Banderas) is dispatched by the Vatican to investigate. After meeting Dr Sharon Golban (Olivia Williams), the fiesty archaeologist responsible for finding the tomb, Gutierrez tries his best to reach the truth of the matter. However, he is instead forced to negotiate the volatile political situation, which sees both Israeli and Palestinian politicians attempt to make deals in order to secure Vatican approval in the disupute over land rights. Then, as the tension mounts, and the various factions await the news which could change the world forever, the situation slides inevitably towards violence.