basilica travel jerusalem

Exploring the Church of the Holy Sepulchre: A Visitor's Guide

Written by Jess Lee Updated Jan 15, 2021

For Christian believers from across the world, and of all denominations, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is the most holy place of the Christian faith.

Whether the church really is the true site of Calvary is moot. This site has been recognized since the early Byzantine era as the place where Jesus Christ's crucifixion took place.

Today, this church, marking the crucifixion site, remains one of the world's major pilgrimage destinations.

For Christians, its resonance as a place of deep religious significance belies its size - built on a more modest scale than some of the great cathedrals of Europe.

The Via Dolorosa - Jerusalem's famous Christian pilgrimage walk - ends here with the last stations inside the basilica itself.

Walking through the basilica, amid the crush of pilgrims and surrounded by the thick smoke of incense, is one of Jerusalem Old City's most atmospheric experiences.

Chapel of Adam

Chapel of calvary and chapel of the holy sepulchre, chapel of the copts and chapel of the jacobites, chapel of st. helena, tips and tactics: how to make the most of your visit to the church of the holy sepulchre, getting there.

From the entrance, begin your sightseeing tour by taking the steps that lead down the north side to the Greek Orthodox Chapel of Adam in which there is also a cleft in the rock.

The chapel gets its name from the legend that Adam's skull was found under the Cross at Christ's crucifixion.

On either side of the entrance are stone benches marking the site of the tombs of the first two rulers of the Crusader kingdom, Godfrey of Bouillon and Baldwin I. Their remains were removed by Muslims in the 13th century, and the tombs themselves were broken up by fanatical Greek monks in 1808.

The appearance of the tombs is known from drawings made before their destruction - low columns supported saddle roofs that bore Latin inscriptions.

One of them read (according to Zev Vilnay): " Here lies the famous Duke Godfrey of Bouillon, who won this whole country for the Christian faith. May his soul rest in Christ. Amen. "

The other read: " Here lies King Baldwin, a second Judas Maccabeus, the hope of his country, the pride of the Church and its strength. Arabia and Egypt, Dan and overweening Damascus feared his power and humbly brought him gifts and tribute. Alas! This poor sarcophagus covers him ."

Heading west, you pass the Stone of Unction on which Christ's body was said to be laid and anointed after his crucifixion, and the Armenian-controlled Place of the Three Mary's where holy women watched the anointing.

From here, you arrive at the Rotunda containing the Holy Sepulchre (Christ's tomb).

The rotunda's exterior was rebuilt by a Smyrna Greek called Kalfa Komnenos after the 1808 fire and has a Turkish Rococo style.

In front of the entrance are huge candelabra, and over the doorway hang 43 lamps (13 each belonging to the Greek, Latin, and Armenian churches, while four belong to the Copts).

The structure of the tomb conceals the natural rock, which can only be seen in the Coptic Chapel to the rear of the Sepulchre.

In an antechamber, the Angel's Chapel , is a stone on which the angel, who announced the resurrection of Christ to the holy women, is said to have sat.

A low door leads into the small tomb chamber along the right-hand wall of which is a marble slab marking the empty burial place.

Apart from the marble cladding, this is a tomb similar to many others dating from the time of Christ, closed by a round millstone whose diameter determined the height of the entrance.

During the night before Easter Sunday, the Holy Sepulchre is the scene of the church's most important annual ceremony. This is when the Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Jerusalem enters the Angel's Chapel, which has been closed since Good Friday, and lights the "holy fire," with the light from the darkness of the tomb symbolizing the Resurrection.

On the south, west, and north sides of the Rotunda are semicircular conches.

In the west conch, opposite the Coptic Chapel, is a Chapel of the Syrian Christians (Jacobites). In here, on the left, is the entrance to a rock-cut tomb. It is traditionally ascribed to Joseph of Arimathea, who also provided the tomb for Christ. It is still in its original condition, without marble cladding.

The northern part of the Rotunda belongs to the Latins. The major point of interest here is the Chapel of the Franciscans , whose friary is immediately adjoining, and the Altar of Mary Magdalene .

In the northern aisle are a number of columns of different periods, including richly decorated Corinthian columns from the original 4th-century church. These are known as the Arches of the Virgin , because the risen Christ is said to have appeared to his mother here.

At the east end of the aisle is a small square chamber known without any historical basis as the Prison of Christ.

At the east end of the nave, a semicircular passage runs past the Chapel of Longinus and the Chapel of the Parting of the Raiment to a flight of steps leading down to St. Helena's Chapel .

In the rock face on the right are small crosses incised by pilgrims of the Crusader period.

The chapel is roughly square, with four short columns of the Byzantine period carrying the high arches of the roof structure.

Through the dome, light falls from above into the large central square, giving the chapel its own special atmosphere, which is enhanced by the lamps, the decorative textiles, and the altar.

Just to the right of the principle apse, is the recess said to be where Saint Helena (mother to Byzantine Emperor Constantine) watched as remnants of the True Cross were excavated.

• The main entrance is from Christian Quarter Road.
• You can also enter the complex from the nearby Ethiopian Monastery.
• Dress modestly. You will not be allowed to enter if you are wearing shorts, singlets, or open-backed tops.
• The Church of the Holy Sepulchre can seem more like a circus than a church at certain times, when the crush of pilgrims and tourists is at its worst. Come early to try and beat the crowds.
• The Church of the Holy Sepulchre sits approximately equal distance between Jaffa Gate and Damascus Gate.
• From central Jerusalem, take Egged Bus No 20, which runs from the central bus station to Jaffa Gate.

The Seven Churches Pilgrimage: Basilica of Holy Cross in Jerusalem

By Sr. Gini George, SSpS

Our pilgrimage brings us to the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem.

The basilica, initially built by Emperor Constantine and his mother Helena, is home to the most treasured relics of the passion of Christ.

It has been rebuilt and modified through the centuries, and its present appearance as a baroque church is the result of rebuilding between 1741 and 1744.

The façade is brought to life with a series of balusters and statues of the four Evangelists, St. Helena and Emperor Constantine.

According to the traditions, St. Helena traveled to the Holy Land around the year 326, and she destroyed the temples dedicated to Jupiter and Venus that Emperor Hadrian had built in the 2nd century on the site of Calvary and the Sepulchre.

She left part of the Cross in Jerusalem, sent a part to Constantinople, and brought the rest to Rome with other relics of the Passion.

Inside the church is a chapel which continues a collection of relics, including:

·       A nail used in the Crucifixion;

·       Two thorns from Christ’s Crown of Thorns;

·       A finger that is said to have belonged to St. Thomas, who at first doubted the Resurrection, and then placed his finger in the risen Christ’s wounds;

·       A fragment of the cross of the “Good Thief” who was crucified with Jesus;

·       Three fragments from the True Cross;

·       A reliquary containing small pieces of the Scourging Pillar; the Holy Sepulchre; and the crib of Jesus;

·       The Title of the Cross: the inscription engraved on the Holy Cross shows the word “Nazarene” written in Hebrew, Latin, and Greek.

St. Helena returned to Rome bringing not only the relics but also some soil from Calvary.

She sprinkled this earth on the floor of the first chapel, which bears her name.

The Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem remains an important religious site for both Rome and the Universal Church.

On our pilgrimage, try spending a little longer in this church to reflect on the triumph of the Cross, which is our only banner as followers of Christ.

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Rome: Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem

About the basilica:.

Despite what the name might imply, this Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem is located in Rome, just a few blocks from the Basilica of Saint John Lateran. It is one of the seven Pilgrimage Churches in Rome and should not be missed by pilgrims, since it contains several significant artifacts brought from the Holy Land by Saint Helena (Emporer Constantine’s mother). Originally built around 320 A.D. it was a small chapel attached to Saint Helena’s home and the floor contained some soil brought back from the holy land.

The relics in the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem:

Perhaps the most famous of the relics enshrined at Santa Croce in Gerusalemme in the Chapel of the Holy Relics are three fragments from the True Cross , one nail used in the crucifixion , and small pieces of the scourging pillar , the Holy Sepulchre and the tomb of Jesus. It also contains a reliquary of two of the thorns in the crown of thorns .

​We have always found this to be an interesting and a convenient location as it is along the route to the Basilica of Saint John Lateran . For some reason it is not included on many organized tours and whenever we visit there do not seem to be many people in the Basilica.

You will also find the tomb of Venerable Antonietta Mea , a young mystic who died at the age of seven and is on her way to Sainthood.

Visiting the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem:

The Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem is easy for independent travelers to visit–or if you are with an organized tour that does not include it try to break away for an hour or so. You will already be close to it if you are visiting Saint John Lateran or several of the other Basilicas in Rome.

It is definitely worth the time. It is open daily and admission is free.

Click here for the official website of the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem in Rome (shown as Santa Croce in Gerusalemme in many maps).

Click here to find hotels in Rome, compare prices, and read what other travelers have to say at TripAdvisor

⇐ Back to Catholic shrines and places of interest in Rome

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Church of All Nations (Basilica of the Agony)

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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Church of All Nations (Basilica of the Agony), Jerusalem

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First time Jerusalem: top tips for your first visit to the Holy City

Aug 4, 2015 • 6 min read

Jerusalem seen from the Mount of Olives after Sunset

Sacred to Jews, Christians and Muslims, Jerusalem’s Old City is one of the world’s foremost pilgrimage destinations. It’s also one of the most magical – and disputed – places in the Middle East. If the description ‘living history’ truly applies anywhere in the world, it applies here.

But the Old City isn’t the only attraction in town. In the modern part of Jerusalem are museums, memorials and markets to visit, as well as a thriving cafe, bar and restaurant scene to investigate . Together, the city’s old and new sections offer an irresistible destination for travellers.

Temple Mount/Al Haram Ash Sharif

Few places on earth are as religiously significant as Temple Mount/Al Haram Ash Sharif . Located on the southeastern edge of the Old City, this elevated cypress-planted plaza is revered by Jews as the location of the First and Second Temples, and is also home to two of Islam’s most sacred buildings: Al Aqsa Mosque and the shrine known as the Dome of the Rock . Security officers ensure that entry to the mosque is for Muslims only, but all visitors can wander around the plaza and admire the perfect proportions, tile-encrusted exterior walls and glittering gold roof of the shrine.

Top tip: A rrive early (the site opens at 7.30am in the summer and 8.30am in the winter) to be sure of getting in, dress modestly (no shorts) and bring your passport for the security check.

Christian Quarter

There haven’t been too many changes in this ancient part of the city since Helena, mother of Roman Emperor Constantine, came to Jerusalem in 326 CE, looking for Christ’s crucifixion site. The signature sound of the narrow streets, home to 4500 residents drawn from 20 different Christian denominations, is still the sonorous chime of church bells; the defining smell is the heady whiff of incense crossed with the mustiness of millennia. The quarter’s greatest attraction is Christendom’s most holy structure, the  Church of the Holy Sepulchre , built at Helena’s behest to sanctify the place where she – and subsequently billions of Christians – believed Christ was crucified and entombed.

Top tip:  Visit just after opening (5am summer, 4am winter) or in the hour before closing (8-9pm summer, 7pm winter) to avoid the crowds.

Jewish Quarter

The massive stone blocks of the  Western Wall are Judaism’s most holy prayer site and an important place of worship – Jews believe the wall once supported the Second Temple, destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE. Nearby, the  Jerusalem Archaeological Park & Davidson Centre offers a fascinating peek into the area's history.

Top tip:  Photography is forbidden in the Western Wall plaza itself, but you can take photographs from the viewing platforms in the alleys between the plaza and Hurva Sq.

Muslim Quarter

A microcosm of the Middle East, this colourful quarter starts at bustling  Damascus Gate on the edge of Arab East Jerusalem and is centred along the narrow mercantile strips of Al Wad Rd and Souq Khan Al Zeit St. Purchase aromatic spices, sample delectable Arabic sweets and admire the handsome, though sadly deteriorating, facades of palaces, tombs and caravanserais (ancient inns for travellers) built by the Mamluk rulers of the city between the 13th and 16th centuries.

Top tip:  If you are here around lunchtime, head to Jerusalem’s best loved hummus joint,  Abu Shukri , for a bowl of tangy tahini-laden hummus accompanied by crispy falafel. Follow it with a tea or coffee at the beloved Abu Musa's Cafe .

Armenian Quarter

The Armenian Quarter’s 1500 residents are the only remaining representatives of a community that has been in Jerusalem for nearly two millennia. Visitors can join them for a service in the 12th-century  St James’ Cathedral   and afterwards head to the  Citadel  at Jaffa Gate, which is now home to the impressive Museum of the History of Jerusalem.

Top tip:  If you liked the cathedral’s tiles and would like to purchase something similar to take home, head to the  Sandrouni Armenian Art Centre  in the neighbouring Christian Quarter.

Mahane Yehuda Market

Crammed with fresh fruit, olives, nuts and vegetables, open-air Mahane Yehuda Market is a foodie's paradise . Come here to source spices, tea, cheese, dried fruit, tahini, bread and pastries or watch the daytime action from one of the cafes  and return after sunset when the market is the centre of Jerusalem's hipster bar scene.

Top tip:  Two exciting restaurants in the market precinct are  Yudale  and  Machneyuda . Arrive early (6.30pm) to score a bar stool at Yudale or book well in advance for a table at Machneyuda.

Israel Museum

You’ll need to devote at least half a day to exploring the magnificent  Israel Museum . Marvel at the treasures in the Archaeology wing, be fascinated by the displays in the Jewish Art & Life wing, wander past sculptures in the art garden designed by American-Japanese artist Isamu Noguchi and come face to face with the Dead Sea Scrolls in the purpose-built Shrine of the Book pavilion.

Top tip: Take advantage of the complimentary audioguide, and consider lunch in the museum’s excellent restaurant,  Modern .

Spread over 16 pine-scented hectares of the Jerusalem forest on the western edge of city,  Yad Vashem is a moving and powerful memorial to the six million Jews killed in the Holocaust. Yad Vashem means ‘A Memorial and a Name’ and one of the most heart-wrenching exhibits here is the Hall of Names, where the personal details of millions of victims are recorded. Another poignant section is the Children’s Memorial, a dimly lit underground cavern containing a solitary flame reflected infinitely by hundreds of mirrors.

Top tip: The memorial is easily reached on the Jerusalem Light Rail (JLR); alight at the Mt Herzl stop.

What to pack

• Good non-slip walking shoes – the Old City can only be explored on foot, and many of its paving stones are worn and slippery.
• Headscarf or shawl – in some religious buildings, women are required to cover their heads.
• Long trousers or skirts – shorts and miniskirts are not acceptable attire in many mosques, churches and synagogues, or at Temple Mount/Al Haram Ash Sharif.

Where to stay

Those seeking atmospheric lodgings should consider staying in one of the religious guesthouses in the Old City or East Jerusalem. The best of these are  Christ Church Guesthouse ,  Austrian Hospice ,  Lutheran Guest House ,  Ecce Homo Pilgrim House and  St George’s Guesthouse . For more comfortable options, stay downtown, where the majority of Jerusalem’s cafes, restaurants and bars are located. Atlas Hotels  offers good midrange boutique choices.

Getting around

To take advantage of Jerusalem’s bus and light rail network, purchase an ‘anonymous’ Rav-Kav smart card for 5NIS from the Egged public ticketing office at the Central Bus Station or from any bus driver. Load it with a certain number of rides (6.90NIS each, or 10 rides for 55.20NIS). Download the Moovit app for help with navigating public transportation.

Getting to Jerusalem from Ben Gurion Airport

From Ben Gurion International Airport , sheruts (shared taxis) can take you to any location in Jerusalem, and they operate 24 hours a day, charging 64NIS per passenger. Look out for them in the rank in front of the international arrivals hall. An hourly bus also goes back and forth from Ben Gurion to Jerusalem Central Bus Station for 16NIS. To book a sherut to the airport, call Nesher Service Taxis . The bus cannot be booked in advance. If you’re going to the airport on a Friday, make sure to book with Nesher in advance.

Last updated August 2018

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23 Historic Places to Visit in Jerusalem Old City

Last Modified: September 15, 2023 //  by  Anda //   21 Comments

Jerusalem is one of the most interesting and inspiring places in the world that offers a lot to those who take time to explore it on their own. If you are planning a self guided trip to Jerusalem and wonder what places to visit, where to stay, or how much time to spend there, this guide is perfect for you.

Jerusalem is sacred to three major faiths, thus constantly entangled in political and religious disputes. For believers, a trip to Jerusalem is a spiritual journey to the holiest city on earth. But whether you are religious or not, you’ll find so many interesting places to visit in Jerusalem!

Table of Contents

1. The 8 Gates of Jerusalem

2. the four quarters of the old jerusalem, 3. western wall (or wailing wall) , 4. temple mount & the dome of the rock, 5. via dolorosa, 6. church of the holy sepulcher, 7. tower of david museum, 8. the ramparts walk, 9. the garden tomb, 10. mount of olives, 11. the jewish cemetery, 12. the chapel of the ascension, 13. the tombs of the prophets, 14. dominus flevit church, 15. the church of mary magdalene, 16. the tomb of mary, 17. the garden of gethsemane, 18. the church of all nations, 19. the tomb of absalom & the tomb of zechariah, 20. the city of david, 21. hezekiah’s tunnel, 22. mahane yehuda market, 23. the israel museum, how many days to spend in jerusalem, where to stay when taking a trip to jerusalem, what to visit in jerusalem – 23 places you shouldn’t miss.

The Old City of Jerusalem is one of the most astonishing cities you will ever visit. This place is a treasure trove of historical architecture, religious culture and tradition, tiny cobbled stone streets dating back centuries, and yet it’s still very much living in the 21st century. 

There are so many astonishing places to visit in Jerusalem, but here are some that you should miss when visiting the city:

The Old City has eight gates , each from a different historical era of Jerusalem. You can enter the city through seven of them: Damascus Gate, Herod’s Gate, Lions’ Gate, Dung Gate, Zion Gate, Jaffa Gate and the New Gate.

The eight gate – the Gate of Mercy (or the Golden Gate) – is located in the eastern wall of the Temple Mount. The gate has been blocked for centuries, but according to Jewish tradition, it will be opened when the Messiah comes and resurrects the dead.

The gates are all very beautiful, therefore I would recommend visiting each one of them if you have time.

The core of the Old City of Jerusalem has a history of over 4000 years, but the walls that surround it are not so old. They were built in the 16th century by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent .

The Old City is divided into four quarters: Jewish Quarter, Armenian Quarter, Muslim Quarter, and Christian Quarter. Each district has its own character and unique atmosphere. The best way to explore them is to get lost in this lively and colorful labyrinth of meandering streets and alleys, where you can feel the pulse of the city.

The area enclosed within the Old City walls is not very big (just about one square kilometer). It is however loaded with important sites to see and things to do. You can wander around for hours and not pass by the same places twice. Chances are you’ll be spending a lot of time in the Old City, since most of the historical sites are in this area.

One of the most important places to visit in Jerusalem is the Western Wall, also known as the Wailing Wall. The wall is actually a small segment of a far longer ancient retaining wall of the Temple Mount. For the Jews the Western Wall is the most significant prayer site in the world. But why?

When the Romans destroyed the temple, in the year 70 AD, this was the only wall that survived. As a result, the Jews were left with no place to worship and they have also been banned from this site for centuries.

Today, although Jews are allowed to visit the Temple Mount, they can’t pray there. Therefore, the Western Wall became the holiest site where Jews can pray, as it’s the closest to where their temple once stood.

No trip to Jerusalem would be complete without a visit to one of the most contested and controversial places in the world: Temple Mount and the famous Dome of the Rock .

The Temple Mount is the elevated plaza above the Western Wall in Jerusalem where the two ancient Jewish temples were located.

Today however, the Temple Mount plaza is dominated by three monumental structures: the al-Aqsa Mosque, the Dome of the Rock and the Dome of the Chain.

For Jews, Temple Mount is the location of their Holy of Holies. Similarly, for Muslims Temple Mount is the the spot where their prophet, Mohamed, ascended into heaven. So as you can see, Temple Mount is one of the most contested religious sites in the world.

Perhaps the most cherished places in Jerusalem is Via Dolorosa. Also known as the Way of the Cross , Via Dolorosa is a processional route that represents the path that Jesus took on the way to His crucifixion . The route goes from Antonia Fortress to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, a distance of about 600 meters.

Via Dolorosa is a celebrated place of Christian pilgrimage that was established in the 18th century. Today the path is marked by the 14 Stations of the Cross, five of which are located inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

The route begins at the Church of Flagellation , where the trial of Jesus took place, and ends at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher where he was crucified. Via Dolorosa consists of 14 stations commemorating particular events that took place in the last hours of Jesus’s life.

If for Jews the Wailing Wall is the most sacred place on earth, for Christians the most venerated one is the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. The church was built over the two of the holiest sites for Christianity: the place of Jesus’ crucifixion and his tomb. 

Church of the Holy Sepulcher is made of over 30 chapels and worship spaces. Three of the important sites to visit in the church are: the Rock of Calvary, the place where the cross stood; the Stone of Anointing, a slab of reddish stone commemorating the place where the body of Jesus was prepared for burial; the Holy Sepulcher (Christ’s tomb) which is inside of a shrine.

Expect hours-long lines at all these stations, especially at the empty tomb of Jesus. We tried to be there earlier to beat the crowds, but at 6:00 a.m. we still found a line of at least 2-3 hours! 

READ NEXT : How to Take a Day Trip to Bethlehem from Jerusalem

The Tower of David – also known as the Jerusalem Citadel – houses the Museum of the History of Jerusalem. The entrance to the beautifully restored ancient citadel is near the Jaffa Gate, in the Christian Quarter.

The Tower of David is one of the biggest attractions in Jerusalem. The museum houses a great collection of Jerusalem artifacts from the Canaanite period up to today. Visiting the citadel is also very rewarding for the spectacular views that you get from the ramparts.

Despite being called the Tower of David , the citadel was actually the palace of King Herod’s the Great, a Roman king that ruled Judea around 74 BC. The original palace had three enormous towers, one of which was modeled on the Lighthouse of Alexandria.

In summer, they stage a a 45-minute sound-and-light show in the Citadel’s courtyard. Visiting the

Walking the Ramparts of the Old City if one of the most rewarding things to do in Jerusalem. This is the best way to see the Old City as a living city, not just as a historical attraction. However, be advised that this walk is rather strenuous and requires ascending and descending very steep stairs.

There are practically two separate walks included in the same admission ticket. The north side walk goes from the Jaffa Gate to the Lions Gate and is the longer of the two. The south side walk is shorter starts at the Tower of David and ends at at the Western Wall.

Located outside the the Old City walls, just a short walk from Damascus Gate, is the GardenTomb. Many consider this site to be the real burial site on which Jesus’ tomb lies. One of the points in support of this idea is the location of the Tomb. In the Bible (Hebrews 13:12) it is written that Jesus was buried outside the city walls, and the Garden Tomb fits this description.

Another interesting observation in support of the Garden Tomb is the hillside next to it, that resembles a skull. The Gospel of John mentions that Jesus was crucified “ at the place of the skull .” Therefore, most experts believe the Garden Tomb is the real place where Jesus was buried.

But whether you consider this to be the actual burial site or not, the Garden Tomb is a really peaceful and nice place to visit.

Places to Visit Outside the City Walls in Jerusalem

Although associated with Jerusalem, the Mount of Olives actually sites outside the walls of the Old City walls. This is one of the holiest places in Jerusalem – sacred both to Jews and Christians. It’s the place where Jesus spent much of His time on Earth teaching his disciples and where he wept for Jerusalem.

To reach the top of the Mount of Olives you can either take a cab, or climb the hill through a narrow alley that starts from the Garden of Gethsemane. The hike is not very long, but it’s pretty steep. Most people take a cab up the mountain and then walk back down.

The Mount of Olives is also believed to be the place where God will return on the Earth to judge humanity. Therefore, thousands of Jews made their graves on the adjacent slopes, in the Jewish Cemetery. Standing above this immense graveyard and looking at the Old City of Jerusalem feels almost unreal. A breathtaking view!

Also atop the Mount of Olives is another place of great biblical significance: the Chapel of the Ascension. This small, simple structure marks the spot from where – according to Christian tradition – Jesus ascended to Heaven.

Inside the structure there is nothing but a rock that supposedly has a footprint left by Jesus prior to His ascension to Heaven.

Right before you start your descent from the mountain, there is a big cave that contains the Tombs of the Prophets Haggai, Zechariah and Malachi. The cave is not visible from the road, so you’ll have to climb down a few steps and look for the sign.

As you continue walking down from the Mount of Olives you’ll encounter a number of sites that commemorate the key events in the ministry of Jesus. One of them is Dominus Flevit, which was built on the site where, according to tradition, Jesus wept over Jerusalem. The lovely chapel is shaped as inverted teardrop and sits in a beautiful garden overlooking the Old City of Jerusalem.

This Russian Orthodox Church (Church of Mary Magdalene) with seven gilded domes is one of the most picturesque sights in Jerusalem. The church contains the relics of Mary Magdalene, one of Jesus’ followers and was a witness to his crucifixion, burial, and resurrection.

At the foot of the Mount of Olives, right next to the Garden of Gethsemane, you find the Tomb of the Virgin the mother of Jesus.

The New Testament doesn’t actually say anything about the death or burial place of Mary. However, Christian tradition considers this below-the-ground crypt to be the place where Mary was buried.

This beautiful grove of olive trees at the foot of the Mount of Olives is believed to be the place where Jesus spent a lot of time in prayer and contemplation.

Unfortunately, the Garden of Gethsemane you see today is not the quiet, peaceful oasis described in the Bible. Loads of tourists visit the place every day and at all times, so don’t expect to find much peace here!

Of all the holy sites on the Mount of Olives, the most beautiful one is the Church of All Nations. The church was built over the rock on which Jesus has prayed before his crucifixion , therefore it is also known as the Basilica of the Agony.

The church has a very beautiful location, adjacent to the Garden of Gethsemane. The interior of the church is particularly beautiful with beautiful mosaics depicting scenes from the night Jesus was betrayed. Visiting the church is a very moving experience for all Christian believers.

Right across from the Church of All Nations/Gethsemane, in the Kidron valley (Yehoshafat valley), you’ll find a series of old tombs/monuments dating from the time of King David (10th Century BC). Two of the most impressive ones are the Tomb of Absalom, the rebellious son of King David, and the Tomb of Zechariah, the prophet.

The monumental Tomb of Absalom rises 20 meters high and features a square base with ionic columns and a conical roof. The tomb is now closed, so you can only see it from the outside.

The Tomb of Zechariah does not contain a burial chamber, so it’s rather a monument. The upper part is shaped like an Egyptian pyramid that sits upon a cornice. It is believed that Zechariah was buried in the T ombs of the Prophets , on the Mount of Olives.

The City of David is an archeological site that contains the oldest part of Jerusalem. This is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Jerusalem. Unfortunately, many visitors to Jerusalem overlook this important site, but I strongly encourage you to visit it during your trip.

The story of the City of David began over 3,000 years ago, when King David establishing it as the first capital of Judea. This is where Kind Solomon, David’s son, built the First Temple on top of Mount Moriah, the site of the actual Dome of the Rock. As a result, this hilltop became one of the most important sites in the world.

The excavation work still continues today, unveiling more amazing finds confirming the authenticity of data mentioned in the Bible. The tour starts at the Davidson Center and goes along the eastern wall. You can see the old foundations of what may have been the royal palace, a house from the first temple period and some ritual baths (Mikveh)

The tour then continues underground, through the Hezekiah’s Tunnel. This was the major water source of Jerusalem for over 1000 years. The tunnel is narrow and low in parts, so it’s definitely not for claustrophobic people.

The tour ends at the Pool of Siloam where, according to the Bible, Jesus healed of the blind man (John 9).

Often referred to as “The Shuk”, Mahane Yehuda Market is perhaps the most popular marketplace in Jerusalem. The market is huge, with over 250 different stands, shops, and restaurants. If you want to try some of the local specialties at a reasonable price, this is the place to come.

If you only have time for one museum on your trip to Jerusalem, I’d recommend the Israel Museum. The 50,000 square meters complex features an impressive variety of collections, from prehistoric archeology to contemporary art. The children’s wing is the most interactive section of the museum, so if you have kids this is a very entertaining place to visit in Jerusalem.

Your entrance fee (54 shekels for adults and 27 shekels for children) includes the audio guide, which I highly recommend. There’s so much to see here! Check the times of the tours at the information desk when you arrive. They are also included in the entrance fee.

Tip : On Tuesdays the museum is open from 4 – 9 p.m. This could be a good time to see it if you want to spend your mornings visiting other places in Jerusalem.

Most of the guides I’ve read recommend spending at the most 2-3 days on a trip to Jerusalem. I also noticed that many people visit Jerusalem as a day trip from Tel Aviv . But in my opinion that’s way too little, considering how many amazing places to visit are in Jerusalem.

When we planned our Israel itinerary , we allocated 6 full days to Jerusalem. We thought that should be plenty, but we still didn’t get to visit everything we would have liked to.

That doesn’t mean it’s not possible to visit Jerusalem in less than 6 days, but you’ll have to rush through the attractions if you want to see everything in less time than that. My recommendation to stay at least 5-6 days in Jerusalem if you want to fully enjoy and comprehend its culture.

The Old City of Jerusalem is the best place to stay if you want to be minutes away from the most popular sites in the city. However, accommodations within the city walls area are limited (HaShimi Hotel).

A better option is to stay just a little outside the Old City where you’ll find more accommodations. The closest lodging is Mamilla Hotel, which is a five-star accommodation connected to the Old City via a short pathway.

We stayed at the St. George’s Pilgrim Guesthouse , a beautiful accommodation set in the guesthouse of St. George’s Cathedral. The guesthouse has simple but very comfortable rooms, a beautiful courtyard, a garden, and a charming cloister decorated with antique furniture.

The hotel has an excellent location – just outside the Old City walls, within 5 minutes walk from Damascus Gate.

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• How to Visit the Temple Mount & Dome of the Rock as a Tourist
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Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Reader Interactions

December 21, 2023 at 2:34 am

This certainly brought back some wonderful memories. I visited Jerusalem only once, back in 2011. While I appreciated the historical sites, other aspects of the city didn’t quite resonate with me. I didn’t feel a positive vibe from the locals, found the food to be okay, and there was more security than I preferred. Nonetheless, I’m grateful for the experience, as it allowed me to learn a great deal about the country. My advice: disregard what the media says and see it with your own eyes! 🙂

I also have many images of Israel, which might help you. I want to contribute. Please let me know if you are interested.

December 28, 2023 at 9:47 am

Thank you for your comment. I appreciate your offer to contribute some images to my post, but I don’t think I need any more at this point.

Best regards

Clare Colley

December 30, 2019 at 5:38 am

Jerusalem looking amazing. After seeing your pics it might have to go to the top of the list for next year. I never realised how much like morocco it looks, but it looks stunning and I definitely want to see all the gates, the tower of David and walk along the ramparts. I might struggle to do a long trip to Israel in 2020 but I think I need to go look at flights for a long weekend to Jerusalem, it looks like a place I would love to explore.

Anda Galffy

December 31, 2019 at 12:40 am

I’ve never been in Morocco, so I can’t tell if Jerusalem looks like it or not.

Blairvillanueva

December 1, 2019 at 7:26 am

Thank you for sharing us this wonderful city. Jerusalem is one of the top destination for faith tourism. And good thing, we have a free travel visa access to visit Jerusalem, yey!

November 30, 2019 at 12:58 am

Great post!! I never consider Jerusalem as someplace that I would consider adding in my list but it sure has been somewhere in the back if y mind. The city looks amazing somewhere sort of medieval. I am thrilled to know all the historical places have been preserved so well.

November 29, 2019 at 9:02 pm

Jerusalem has always been on my list. Apart from the religious reasons the architecture and feel of the place is what attracts me there. I love visiting historical places and the old city looks amazing. Would love to visit the wailing Wall, the prophets tomb and especially the Hezekiah’s Tunnel among other things.

November 29, 2019 at 6:42 am

I must admit your post come in perfect time as I start to plan my trip to this beautiful historic destination later in 2020. It has been on my list for a few reasons and your post highlights most of these. Apart from the history and religious importance of this city I personally want to visit it just to wonder around the old town. Its shops and atmosphere. I believe the culinary delights are great here as well and I look forward to it. Georges Pilgrimage place would be a good start when looking at accommodation . Thanks for this detailed post and I will be in touch if I need more information.

November 29, 2019 at 3:14 pm

Please feel free to contact me with any questions, Amar.

Jane Dempster-Smith

November 28, 2019 at 12:43 pm

Excellent article. Interesting facts about the 8 gates, 7 that you can visit, and the 8th that is closed. I knew about the Wailing Wall but never knew the facts about it, thanks for enlightening me. This article has been a history lesson for me. I would like to visit Jerusalem one day, I have bookmarked your article for future travels. Thanks Anda.

Hope you’ll get to visit Israel, Jane.

Rhonda Albom

Those gates truly are gorgeous. I love the top of the Damascus gate. It looks delicate and dainty, like something out of a fairytale. I’ve heard of the wailing wall before. Don’t people leave scraps of paper with their prayers or wishes in the cracks of the wall? And wow, I didn’t know the Chapel of the Ascension existed. The stone is such an interesting relic.

November 29, 2019 at 3:15 pm

Yes they do leave prayers on pieces of paper in the wall, Rhonda. Jerusalem is such a great place to visit!

Linda (LD Holland)

November 28, 2019 at 6:08 am

We do love old gates to cities. We only got to see two on our visit. We found the old city to be such a mix of old and new. At times it was disturbing to see replica religious relics decorated as tourist trinkets. We were sorry we did not get to see Temple of the Rock up close. But we got the most amazing view from a distance. It was interesting to visit the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. Even if I did almost get run down by a group of nuns pushing in the long line! We are sorry we missed the chance to walk on the walls. The views from above look stunning. We spent most of our time in the old town. So definitely a lot to see on a return trip.

November 29, 2019 at 3:17 pm

I thought Israel will be a one-time-thing for me, Linda, but I already want to go back there. It’s such an amazing place!

November 28, 2019 at 1:40 am

Jerusalem always reminds me of the wailing wall. I really want to visit Jerusalem and click few great photos of the wailing wall… Jerusalem is so rich in history however sadly very few tourists visit this great country

November 29, 2019 at 3:18 pm

You are wrong, Tanayesh. Jerusalem is one of the most visited places on Earth! There are so many tourists (and pilgrims) there, you can barely move.

November 28, 2019 at 1:27 am

This sure did brought back some fantastic memories. I only went to Jerusalem once and that was in 2011. I liked the historical places but the other aspects of the city I didn’t enjoy. I didn’t get a good feeling from the locals, the food was ok, and way too much security for my liking. I am still glad I went and learnt about the country a lot more and all I can say is, forget what the media says. See it for your own eyes! 🙂

November 29, 2019 at 3:23 pm

The security is absolutely necessary in Jerusalem, Danik. Don’t forget that this city is a boiling pot. There is so much friction between the three main religions that coexist there! As for the vibe that you get from the locals, it’s very different in each of the four quarters. The Orthodox Jews are probably the least friendly of them, but I felt great in the Muslim Quarter I had a lot of fun. Those merchants are full of humor and very outspoken.

Bong @Cebu island hopping

November 25, 2019 at 10:31 pm

One day in God’s will, I will visit this holy place.

November 25, 2019 at 10:38 pm

Hopefully you will. Jerusalem is awesome!

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The Complete Pilgrim - Religious Travel Sites

Howard Kramer's, The Complete Pilgrim, Religious Travel Site

BASILICA OF THE ANNUNCIATION

May 31, 2014 By Howard Kramer Leave a Comment

Nazareth, Israel

(photo from Wikipedia)

When it comes to Christian pilgrimage sites, there is no better place to begin then at the beginning, in Nazareth, where Mary the mother of Jesus was first visited by the angel Gabriel.  While Bethlehem and Jerusalem boast the great shrines of Jesus’ birth and death, it is Nazareth where Jesus spent most of his life in between, and the surrounding region of Galilee where he spent most of the few short years of his ministry.  The region is peppered with shrines and churches which commemorate the events of Jesus’ life, first and foremost being the Basilica of the Annunciation.  Despite its lesser status, at least compared to Jerusalem and Bethlehem, Nazareth and the Basilica of the Annunciation are among the oldest and most popular stops for Christian pilgrims working their way across the Holy Land.  It is also the largest and most important Christian shrine in Israel exclusively under the jurisdiction of the Roman Catholic Church.

As far as is known, Nazareth did not play a significant role in history prior to the Christian era.  In fact, Nazareth was never mentioned as such in the Old Testament, and may not even have existed as a village until the Second Temple period.  Its first appearance in history, and in the Bible, was during the reign of Augustus Caesar.  It was probably a rural outlying community of the much larger town of Tzippori, an important center of Jewish priestly activity during the Hasmonean and Herodian periods.  Sometime before 6 BC, Nazareth became home to what would be its most famous couple: Joseph the carpenter and his young wife, Mary.  It was during their residence here that the first miracle of the New Testament, the Immaculate Conception, took place.

The Bible offers only a brief overview of this pivotal event.  According to the New Testament, Mary was informed of her delicate condition by the Archangel Gabriel, the herald of the Lord, though it is uncertain whether the conception took place at this time or earlier.  Presumably, she spent most of her pregnancy in Nazareth.  However, because of the census decreed by Caesar Augustus, Joseph and Mary were forced to travel to his ancestral home of Bethlehem, in the old tribal territory of Judah, where the actual birth took place.

Basilica of the Annunciation (wikipedia.com)

There are some discrepancies among the Gospels as to exactly what happened after Jesus’ birth.  The general belief is that the family fled to Egypt immediately afterwards, and did not return to Nazareth until the death of Herod the Great.  Whatever the case, they eventually did return to Nazareth, where Jesus spent most of his life until he began his ministry at around the age of thirty.  During these later years he returned to his home at least a few times, after which Nazareth once again fell into obscurity.  Christian tradition suggests that by the time of the Pentecost, not even Mary continued to reside there.

While much of the Galilee region became Christianized during Jesus’ life, Nazareth itself remained solidly Jewish for the next three centuries.  During the shrine-building craze of the 4th century AD, Christians finally began to take an active interest in Nazareth as a sacred destination.  The first Church of the Annunciation was built around that time.  Nazareth is now a bustling city, one of the largest in the Galilee region.  Despite the mixed Jewish-Christian-Muslim population, Nazareth is considerably more peaceful than other such places.  This is due in large part to the fact that Galilee is not part of the disputed territories.  This in turn has made it much easier for hundreds of thousands of Christian pilgrims to visit the Church of the Annunciation every year.

According to tradition, the original Basilica of the Annunciation built in the 4th century was constructed on the site where the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary.  However, the Byzantine-era structure that once stood here has since been rebuilt several times.  The current incarnation is a massive modern-age church that only dates from the 1960s.  Although not particularly venerable, it has the distinction of being the largest Christian church in the Holy Land, and the largest church in active use in the Middle East in general.

Architecturally the building is a hulking white structure which blends earlier Byzantine and Crusader elements into a quasi-modern design that has received mixed artistic reviews.  The exterior of the basilica is decorated with a collection of Christian art donated from around the world.  The interior of the Basilica is so large that it probably would enclose most of what would have been the original village of Nazareth.  As with the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem and the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, the highlight of the shrine lies beneath the basilica: the Grotto of the Annunciation.  This is supposedly located in the exact spot where the house of Mary once stood, and the place in which Gabriel appeared to her.

The Basilica of the Annunciation dominates the center of Nazareth.  About twenty-five miles east of Haifa and a hundred miles north of Jerusalem, Nazareth is a geographic anomaly in the region: it is home to a major Christian shrine in a predominantly Arab city located solidly within Israeli Jewish territory.  Despite this Nazareth is generally free from the problems and violence that plague other areas, and visiting is relatively easy.  The Church of the Annunciation is open daily from 8:30am-5:00pm (closed for lunch from 11:45am-2:00pm).  There is no cost of admission.  Web: www.basilicanazareth.org (official website)

Other Sites

Nazareth is brimming with sites directly related to the life of Christ and the holy family.  According to tradition, Mary’s Well was once used by Jesus’ mother, and is considered to be an alternative site for the location of Gabriel’s appearance.  The Church of St. Joseph marks the site of Joseph’s carpentry shop.  Part of what is believed to be the original workshop is still preserved below the church.  The Synagogue Church was built over the ruins of an ancient synagogue.  Being the only one in Nazareth, it is assumed that this is the synagogue where Jesus preached when he was in town.  Not far outside of Nazareth is the Basilica of the Transfiguration on Mount Tabor, where Jesus was transfigured in the presence of his Apostles.

About Howard Kramer

Howard Kramer is the creator and author of The Complete Pilgrim. He first took an interest in religious sites in his early twenties when traveling through Italy after college. In the two decades since he has traveled to more than two dozen countries and almost every state, visiting and photographing hundreds of the world’s greatest churches, synagogues and other places of religious interest. Howard has been writing about religious sites for the better part of the last decade, and The Complete Pilgrim is a culmination of years of his work and passion.

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Enormous Roman Basilica Dated to King Herod’s Reign Revealed in Israel

At its height, the public building boasted opulent marble columns and sculptures

Isis Davis-Marks

Correspondent

Archaeologists in Ashkelon, Israel, have revealed the country’s largest Roman-era basilica , or public building. Constructed during the first century B.C., the monumental structure dates to the reign of Herod the Great , a Judean king immortalized in the Bible as a murderous tyrant. (The BBC and Live Science note that most historians believe the infamous tale of his so-called massacre of the innocents is fictional.)

Rossella Tercatin of the Jerusalem Post reports that researchers from the Israel Antiquities Authority (IAA) excavated the 2,000-year-old basilica while conducting renovations at Tel Ashkelon National Park . Per a statement , the project seeks to restore the building to its former glory, allowing the public to roam three imposing halls lined with opulent marble columns and sculptures.

This isn’t the first time that scholars have unearthed the basilica’s remains: As excavation leader Rachel Bar-Natan tells the Post , British archaeologist John Garstang , who led an expedition on behalf of the Palestinian Exploration Fund in the 1920s, initially discovered the structure but decided to cover it up again.

Archaeologists returned to the area in 2008, when the first of two recent excavations began. After the second dig concluded in 2018, the Israel Nature and Parks Authority (INPA) partnered with the IAA, the city of Ashkelon and the Leon Levy Foundation to reconstruct the historic site, which is also home to an odeon, or small theater.

“Garstang had already calculated the dimensions of the building,” Bar-Natan tells the Post. “And seeing the remains of the marble columns, made with materials imported from Asia Minor, he had suggested that the basilica dated back to the time of [Herod], since historian Josephus described how the king built a colonnaded hall and other structures in the city.”

According to Haaretz ’s Ruth Schuster, coins discovered in the basilica’s foundations pinpoint its construction to Herod’s reign, which spanned 37 to 4 B.C. The edifice measured roughly 360 feet long and 130 feet wide, with a colonnade, or row of columns, standing some 40 feet tall. Like other pre-Christian basilicas in the Greco-Roman world, it served as a civic rather than religious center and consisted of three parts: a central space and two side halls.

Interestingly, the researchers found that the basilica’s marble architectural features date to the late second century A.D., when the Severan dynasty ruled the Roman Empire. Per the statement, marble columns and capitals engraved with depictions of plants and the Roman eagle once flanked the building’s halls; towering statues of victory goddess Nike, condemned Titan Atlas and Egyptian deity Isis-Tyche, among other figures, lined its walls. In total, scholars have recovered nearly 200 objects crafted out of marble imported from Asia Minor.

“You can see in your mind’s eye ships laden with marble, sailing to Ashkelon,” IAA archaeologist Saar Ganor tells Haaretz .

In 363 A.D., a powerful earthquake along the Dead Sea fault inflicted heavy damage on the basilica, which was subsequently abandoned. A few centuries later, under the Abbasid (750–1258 A.D.) and Fatimid (909–1171 A.D.) caliphates, inhabitants of the area repurposed some of the building’s marble as part of new construction projects.

Officials hope that visitors will soon be able to experience the basilica in its pre-earthquake glory. Planned renovations include placing restored columns around the basilica and filling in the structure’s dilapidated floor.

“The Ashkelon National Park is one of the most important ancient sites, both in Israel and in the world, and time and time again it emerges as one of the most visited sites in the country,” says Ashkelon Mayor Tomer Glam in the statement. “… I am convinced that the restoration and conservation work in the park, the new archaeological discoveries, and the development work—including new accessible paths—will contribute significantly to the park’s natural beauty.”

Editor's Note, June 9, 2021: This article has been updated with additional information on the biblical King Herod.

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Isis Davis-Marks | | READ MORE

Isis Davis-Marks is a freelance writer and artist based in New York City. Her work has also appeared in Artsy , the Columbia Journal , and elsewhere.

Virtually visit the Basilica of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme: See relics of the Passion

Antoine Mekary | ALETEIA

Aleteia invites you to a virtual Lenten pilgrimage through Rome’s 42 station churches: one church per day, from February 17 to April 11.

This soil was laid under the floor of the “Sessorian Palace,” which became the Chapel of St. Helena. It was holy ground, so much so that in the reconstruction of 1743 the floor of the chapel was not touched, and even today to access it you have to go down several steps.

The apsidal fresco depicts the finding of the relics of the Cross, according to the story of the Golden Legend: St. Helen touched a dead man with the wood of the three crosses, and when he came into contact with the True Cross, he was resurrected.

The basilica has undergone several renovations. Its current appearance dates back to the 18th century. During the restoration in the 15th century was found the “Titulus Crucis,” the sign placed on the cross of Jesus, with the inscription chosen by Pilate. The text is written in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin characters: “I. NAZARINVS RE[X IVDAEORVM]”.

Today the relics are kept in a chapel accessed by an uphill corridor, a symbol of the ascent to Calvary. In the reliquary are kept three fragments of the “True Cross,” two thorns from the Crown, a holy nail and the “Titulus Crucis.” Over time, fragments of the grotto of Bethlehem, the Holy Sepulchre and the scourging pillar, the Good Thief’s cross and the phalanx of St. Thomas’ finger have been added.

Rejoice with Jerusalem, and be glad for her, all you who love her. (Is 66,10)

* In collaboration with the Office for Social Communications of the Vicariate of Rome.

Read about the tradition of the station churches here . And see previous churches in the pilgrimage here .

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