Located in Christian Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. The church of the Holy Sepulchre contains 2 of the holiest sites in Christianity: The first is the site where Jesus was crucified, and Jesus empty tomb where he is believed by Christians to have been buried and resurrected. The church has long been a major pilgrimage center for Christians all around the world. The construction started 326 AD. And the site is first time opened at 335 AD.
Major religions: Three major Christian communities serve as the custodians of the Holy Sepulchre. They include the Greek Orthodox, the Franciscan Order (known as the “Latins”), and the Armenian Church.
Main Interest Points: Within the church proper are the last four stations of the Cross of the Via Dolorosa, representing the final episodes of the Passion of Jesus. The church has been a major Christian pilgrimage destination since its creation in the 4th century, as the traditional site of the resurrection of Christ, thus its original Greek name, Church of the Anastasis (‘Resurrection’).
Entrance: Originally highly carved arched doors, and today the right doorway has long since been bricked up and the left-hand entrance is currently accessible. The entrance to the church leads to the south transept, through the crusader façade in the parvis of a larger courtyard. This is found past a group of streets winding through the outer Via Dolorosa by way of a souq in the Muristan. This narrow way of access to such a large structure has proven to be hazardous at times. For example, when a fire broke out in 1840, dozens of pilgrims were trampled to death.
Parvis (courtyard): The courtyard facing the entrance to the church is known as the parvis. Two streets open into the parvis: St Helena Road (west) and Suq ed-Dabbagha (east). Around the parvis are a few smaller structures.
Bell tower: The 12th-century Crusader bell tower is just south of the Rotunda, to the left of the entrance. Its upper level was lost in a 1545 collapse. In 1719, another two stories were lost.
Calvary (Golgotha): Traditionally regarded as the site of Jesus’s crucifixion and the most lavishly decorated part of the church. The exit is via another stairway opposite the first, leading down to the ambulatory. Golgotha and its chapels are just south of the main altar of the catholicon.
Check Visitor Opening Hours and Plan Your Visit Accordingly
Make sure you check exactly when the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is open and plan your visit accordingly. Usually, the church is opened daily from 8 a.m until 7 p.m in winter, and 8 a.m until 8 p.m in summertime. Take into account that certain specific places of worship within the complex may close earlier perhaps for liturgical services as well as on public holidays – so make sure to double-check with official sources before you travel!
Research the Different Spaces Within the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Before you visit the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the different areas that are located within the complex. Obviously, you’ll want to visit and pay tribute at each of these special spaces—known as chapellets or centoes—which represent sites such as Jesus’s tomb, the Stone at Calvary and His place of elevation into heaven. Make sure you have investigated all these places before travelling, so that you can make the most out of your journey.
Plan What You Would Like to See During Your Visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
There are many important and notable sites to see in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Take some time to research about each of these places so that you know what you want to explore when visiting the Church. Some of the renowned places located within this complex include Jesus’s tomb, the Stone at Calvary, and the site where Jesus was raised into heaven. Familiarize yourself with these spots before your visit so that you can make your journey a memorable experience!
Get Acquainted with Basic Rules and Regulations of Visiting Worship Places
When visiting any place of worship, please always remember to respect the sentiments of those present and the traditions associated with it. Everyone is expected to behave in an orderly and respectful manner, maintaining necessary decorum. It is also recommended to learn about certain rules and regulations regarding photographing or video recording before taking out your equipment for photo opportunities. Additionally, refraining from eating and drinking inside the main hall may be more appropriate as per local customs.
