The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located in Jerusalem, Israel, and is a very important site for Christians. The location is believed to be the place where Jesus Christ was crucified and buried. It is also said to be the place of his resurrection. Due to these reasons, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is visited by thousands of pilgrims from all across the globe.
Attractions
There are a number of churches and other monuments that are quite popular due to their religious significance.
Calvary: It is located on the southern side of the altar and is considered to be the place where Jesus Christ was crucified. The Rock of Calvary is said to be the exact spot where the crucifix was raised. Under Calvary, there is the Chapel of Adam, which is believed to be the place where Adam was buried as it is said that Jesus was crucified at the spot where Adam was buried.
Stone of Unction: Also called the Stone of Anointing, it is believed to be the spot where Jesus’ body was prepared for burial by Joseph of Arimathea. Behind the spot, the wall is adorned with Tau crosses, bearing red banners, and is decorated with lamps. A mosaic, along the wall, depicts the anointment of Jesus’ body.
Aedicule: It is located in the rotunda and has two rooms. The first one has the Angel’s Stone, which is thought to be a fragment of the stone that the tomb was sealed with, while the second room has the tomb itself.
Catholicon: It is located just opposite to the entrance of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. It has a large iconostasis that is flanked by the thrones of the Patriarchs of Jerusalem and Antioch.
Prison of Christ: It can be found on the north aisle and is believed to house Jesus Christ and the two thieves before their crucifixion.
Accommodation
As a major pilgrimage destination, Jerusalem brings in a plenty of options for travelers. Budget travelers can check out the Abraham Hostel Jerusalem and the Jerusalem Hostel, while the Jerusalem Inn and the Park Hotel would be a good choice for those looking for a mid-range accommodation. Travelers who have no qualms about saving money must check out the King David Jerusalem Hotel and The American Colony Hotel.
Church of the Holy Sepulchre Map
Facts about Church of the Holy Sepulchre
- The stone at the Stone of Unction was not there during the initial construction of the church. It was added during its reconstruction in 1810.
- A ladder above the façade has been moved only twice since it was first mentioned in 1752 and that’s why it is called the Immovable Ladder.
- The site of the church was initially a Temple of Aphrodite.
Where is Church of the Holy Sepulchre?
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located at Suq Khan e-Seit and Christian Quarter Rd in Jerusalem.
How to Reach
By Air
The nearest international airport is the Ben Gurion International Airport in Tel Aviv. The airport is almost 50 km away from Jerusalem and the drive will take about 43 minutes.
By Rail
The Jerusalem Malha Railway Station is the main rail station in the city and is about 7 km away from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
By Road
Jerusalem is well connected to all nearby cities by road. Busses are arguably the best form of travel in Israel and the Central Bus Station is located close to the main entrance to Jerusalem.
Best time to visit Church of the Holy Sepulchre
The best time to visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is during the major Christian festivals of Easter and Christmas. However, the church would be particularly crowded at this time.
Church of the Holy Sepulchre Hours
The church opens at 5:00 a.m. and gets closed by 8:00 p.m. between April and September. However, during the months of October and March, the church remains open only between 5:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Church of the Holy Sepulchre Tickets
Entry to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is free for all.
More on Church of the Holy Sepulchre
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre can get quite crowded as the day progresses; therefore, it is advisable to reach the church as early as possible.
Female visitors are advised to wear clothing that covers as much skin as possible.
Image credits : Berthold Werner