Church of the Holy Sepulchre

כנסיית הקבר / كنيسة القيامة

The site traditionally regarded as the place of Jesus' crucifixion, burial and resurrection. Jointly administered by several Christian denominations, it is the most important pilgrimage site for Christians worldwide.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre stands in the Christian Quarter of the Old City. Roman Emperor Constantine first ordered its construction in the 4th century. It was later damaged and rebuilt several times, and its main structure today is largely in the Crusader style of the 12th century. Inside, the Greek Orthodox, Roman Catholic (Franciscan), Armenian Apostolic, Coptic, Ethiopian and Syriac churches share the building, each responsible for different areas. They coexist under the Status Quo arrangement, which has lasted for centuries. Traditionally, the keys to the church's main door have been kept by two Muslim families for generations. Highlights include the Stone of Anointing near the entrance (said to be where Jesus' body was anointed). On the steep stairs to the right is Golgotha, the site of the crucifixion, where you can touch the rock in which the cross stood. Under the large dome is the Edicule, a small shrine holding the traditional tomb of Jesus. It often has long queues, and only a few people are allowed in at a time. There is also the Armenian Chapel of St. Helena and the underground Chapel of the Invention of the Cross. Admission is free. Clothing must cover shoulders and knees, and visitors should keep silence. It is quieter just after the doors open in the morning or in the evening. The church is about a 10-minute walk from Jaffa Gate. Before traveling, be sure to check the latest safety advisories from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the local Chinese embassy or consulate.

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

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