Did Jesus really exist?

Yes. The existence of Jesus of Nazareth is one of the most secure facts in ancient history, accepted by virtually all scholars - including sceptics and non-Christians. We have not only the New Testament documents (multiple early, independent sources) but also non-Christian references from Roman and Jewish writers such as Tacitus and Josephus.

Historians take it as established that Jesus lived in first-century Palestine, was known as a teacher and healer, gathered followers, and was crucified under Pontius Pilate. The interesting debates are not about whether he existed, but about who he was and what happened after his death.