Here are two more pics taken at the Church of the Holy Sepulche Church at Jerusalem Israel.

You can reach the Church by two ways: first, you travel following the route of the Stations of the Cross (Via Dolorosa). Second is enter via the Jaffa Gate and walk through the Christian Quarter Street. We had an easier time reaching the Church going the Jaffa route. But then of course, many prefer to go to the Church through Via Dolorosa.

Immediately upon entering the Church you can see the Stone of the Annointing. I was able to place my hand at the Stone - which is a large rectangular reddish-colored slab of stone that is said to be where the body of Jesus was annointed prior to his burial.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre's present location is actually the ground where the tomb of Jesus and His Crucifixion site is located. In ancient Roman times, a temple dedicated to their gods was built on this ground in order for the memory of Jesus be forgotten. In the 4th century, King Constantine embraced Christianity, and together with his mother Queen Helena, built the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Throughout its existence thereafter, the church experience major destruction and pillage, in the hands of the Persians and Egyptians. Despite these unfortunate events, the church survived and was rebuilt.

Today, the Educule of the Holy Sepulchre or the Tomb of Jesus can be found in the Church's larger dome. Masses are being celebrated there daily by three Churches, namely the Roman Catholic, the Armanian Church, and the Greek Orthodox Church.

Also known as the Church of the Resurrection, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is recognized as the holiest Christian site in Jerusalem Israel. The Church serves as a major witness to the events (and the Man central to such events) that changed the world.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is a must see for tourists who travel to Israel not only because it is one of Israel's great tourist sites, but because it tells so much about the history of Israel, specifically ancient Israel.

Related Post: My Travel to Israel: Via Dolorosa

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