When visiting the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, there are several significant sites within the complex that you should track down. It’s best done with a guided tour to ensure you learn the true significance of each individual site.
However, even if you are visiting the church without a guide, this overview will help you understand the most important things inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where to find them, and their significance.
Here are some of the top things to see at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
Golgotha (Calvary)
Golgotha or Calvary is a focal point inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. It is believed to be the hill where Jesus was crucified. Visitors can see the exposed rock of Calvary and the Altar of the Crucifixion, which marks the traditional site of the crucifixion. The area is often adorned with candles and is a place of reverence and reflection for many Christians.
Stone of Anointing
Located near the entrance of the church, the Stone of Anointing is a polished stone slab believed to be the place where Jesus’ body was prepared for burial. It is commonly regarded as a place of great significance and devotion. Visitors often touch or kiss the stone as an act of reverence or lay personal items on it as a symbol of their prayers.
The Aedicule (Edicule)
The Aedicule or Edicule is a small shrine located within the church’s rotunda. It encloses the Holy Tomb, the burial place of Jesus. This makes it one of the most important places in Jerusalem. The Aedicule has undergone various renovations over the centuries. Visitors can enter the shrine and see the tomb, which is a small chamber with an altar. It is a site of deep spiritual significance and attracts pilgrims from around the world.
Chapel of the Finding of the Cross
This chapel is traditionally associated with Helena, the mother of Emperor Constantine, who is said to have discovered the True Cross on this site. The chapel is adorned with beautiful artwork and contains relics associated with the Crucifixion. A prominent feature is a statue of Helena holding the Cross. Pilgrims often offer prayers and veneration in this chapel.
Chapel of Saint Helena
Situated beneath the church, this chapel is dedicated to Saint Helena, who is credited with finding the True Cross. The chapel is adorned with intricate mosaics depicting scenes from her life and the discovery of the Cross. It houses a fragment of the True Cross, which is displayed for veneration. The chapel’s underground location adds to its sense of sacredness.
Katholikon
The Katholikon is the main worship area of the Holy Sepulchre Church and serves as a gathering place for religious services and ceremonies. It is a large, cavernous space with impressive architectural features such as soaring arches, intricate mosaics, and chandeliers. The walls are adorned with religious artwork, and various Christian denominations conduct their services in this area.
Ethiopian Monastery
The Ethiopian Orthodox Church maintains a presence within the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and their monastery is located on the roof of the church. The Ethiopian Monastery is a small complex that includes chapels, residential areas, and a courtyard. Visitors can explore this unique area and learn about the rich Ethiopian Christian traditions and heritage.
Armenian Chapel
The Armenian Apostolic Church has a significant presence within the church, and their chapel houses valuable relics and artwork. The Armenian Chapel is known for its distinctive architectural style, featuring intricate stone carvings and ornate decorations. It contains ancient manuscripts, precious icons, and relics associated with Armenian saints. The chapel serves as a place of prayer and pilgrimage for Armenian Christians.
Greek Orthodox Chapel of St. Mary Magdalene
This chapel is dedicated to St. Mary Magdalene, one of the key figures in Jesus’ life and one of the best things to see in the Holy Sepulchre Church. The Greek Orthodox Chapel of St. Mary Magdalene features beautiful icons, religious artifacts, and intricate murals depicting scenes from her life. It is an important site for the Greek Orthodox community and offers a serene space for prayer and contemplation.
Chapel of Adam
The Chapel of Adam is located directly beneath Golgotha, according to tradition. It is said to be the burial place of Adam, the biblical figure. The chapel is small and intimate, with a simple altar and a small niche that represents Adam’s tomb. Visitors can explore this chapel and reflect on the biblical narrative of Adam’s significance in Christian theology.
“Immoveable Ladder”
The “Immovable Ladder” can be found resting against a window ledge on the outside of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. This unique ladder holds centuries of history and symbolism within its cedar wood frame. A living testament to the delicate balance of power and shared custodianship among the Christian denominations that oversee the church and Status Quo.
Each of these sites in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre carries its own historical, religious, and artistic significance, contributing to the overall spiritual experience and sense of awe that visitors often feel while exploring this sacred place. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore each of these best things to see in the Holy Sepulchre Church.