Via Dolorosa

ויה דולורוזה / طريق الآلام

The route Jesus is traditionally believed to have walked while carrying the cross to his place of suffering. Fourteen “Stations of the Cross” lead through the Old City's Muslim Quarter and Christian Quarter, ending at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

The Via Dolorosa (Latin for “Way of Sorrow”) took its present shape gradually between the Middle Ages and the 18th century. It begins near Lion's Gate, in the area of the Antonia Fortress, which is traditionally identified as the place where the Roman governor tried Jesus. The route runs west through the alleys of the Old City and ends at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, about 600 m in total. Along the way are 14 stations, each marked by a Roman numeral plaque on the wall. The first nine are located in the streets and alleys. For example, the second station is at the Chapel of the Flagellation and Condemnation. The third and fourth stations are at small chapels commemorating Jesus' first fall and his meeting with his mother. At the fifth station, Simon of Cyrene helped Jesus carry the cross, and the wall has a dent said to be where Jesus placed his hand. The last five stations are inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Along the route, you can also visit the Roman stone pavement (Lithostrotos) beneath the Convent of the Sisters of Zion and the Ecce Homo Arch. Every Friday afternoon, Franciscan friars lead the faithful in a procession and prayer along the Via Dolorosa (around 3 p.m. in winter and 4 p.m. in summer, subject to local announcements), and visitors are welcome to join. Most of the route runs through the busy market of the Muslim Quarter, where crowds are heavy, so keep an eye on your belongings. The full walk takes about 1 hour, not including visits. Before traveling, be sure to check the latest safety advisories from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the local Chinese embassy or consulate.

Via Dolorosa

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