The Church of the Holy Sepulchre stands at the heart of Jerusalem's Christian Quarter, encompassing the two holiest sites in Christianity: Calvary (Golgotha), where Jesus was crucified, and the empty tomb where He was buried and rose again.
Built by Emperor Constantine in 335 AD over the sites identified by his mother Helena, this sacred church has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times throughout history. The current structure dates primarily from the Crusader period (1149 AD).
Key Areas to Visit
The Stone of Anointing Upon entering, pilgrims first encounter this reddish stone where Jesus' body was prepared for burial. Many kneel to kiss or touch this sacred stone.
Calvary/Golgotha Climb the steep stairs to the right of the entrance to reach the site of the crucifixion. The 12th Station of the Cross is here, marked by a silver disk beneath the Greek Orthodox altar.
The Edicule The ornate structure in the rotunda houses the Holy Sepulchre itself—the rock-hewn tomb where Jesus was laid. Recently restored, the Edicule remains the focal point of Christian pilgrimage.
The Chapel of Adam Located beneath Calvary, tradition holds that Christ's blood flowed down to cleanse the skull of Adam buried below.
Spiritual Preparation
Many pilgrims recommend arriving early morning for quiet reflection. Consider bringing a small Bible to read relevant passages on site. The experience of standing where Jesus died and rose again is profoundly moving for believers.