Joseph of Arimathea and Jesus as a boy

An illustration of Joseph of Arimathea accompanied by the boy Jesus, standing atop the grassy hills of Avalon (now called Glastonbury).

The legend of Joseph of Arimathea and the boy Jesus visiting Avalon—often identified with Glastonbury in Somerset—forms one of Britain's most cherished Christian traditions, blending folklore, spirituality, and mysticism.

According to this tale, Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy merchant and the uncle of Jesus, traveled extensively for trade. Some versions suggest he was a tin merchant, a precious resource mined in Cornwall and Somerset, which provided a reason for his journeys to the British Isles.

During one of these visits, it’s said that he brought along the young Jesus, offering him a peaceful place to learn and grow away from the turbulence of Judea.

While in Avalon, this legend says, Jesus walked upon the lush, green hills and may have even taught spiritual truths to the local people. Some believe he blessed the land, thereby sanctifying it as a “second Holy Land.” This tale holds that Jesus's presence left a sacred imprint on the region, marking Avalon (Glastonbury) as a site of profound spiritual significance.

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