以色列耶路撒冷圣墓教堂

这 Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem is one of the most important Christian sites in the world. It is traditionally believed to be located at the place of the crucifixion, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The church is also known as the Church of the Resurrection of Christ.

The first church on this site was constructed in 325 AD, though the building has undergone several major reconstructions over the centuries. The exterior visible today was completed in the 1860s.

The church is situated on a small square in the Old City of Jerusalem and can be difficult to locate within the narrow streets without a map. From the outside, it is relatively modest, but the interior is extensive and complex. Unlike typical churches with a single main hall, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher consists of multiple large and small chambers arranged on several levels.

The layout reflects the presence of multiple holy sites. Near the main entrance is the Stone of Anointing, where tradition holds that Jesus’ body was prepared for burial. To the right, narrow stairs lead to the area of Calvary (Golgotha), a rock approximately 5–6 meters high where Christ was crucified.

To the left of the Stone of Anointing is the main rotunda, featuring a large dome. At its center stands the Aedicule (Kuvuklia), a small structure housing the tomb of Christ. Each year, the “Holy Fire” appears at a designated spot outside this chapel.

From the rotunda, visitors can access the Church of St. Helena, and descend further to the underground chamber known as the Chapel of the Finding of the True Cross, located in a former quarry. It was here that a cross believed to be that of Christ was discovered during excavations.

Overall, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher spans four levels and includes numerous halls, passages, and rooms, some of which are restricted from public access. Six Christian denominations—Catholic, Armenian, Greek Orthodox, Coptic, Syrian, and Ethiopian—share the administration of the church, and services are held continuously throughout the day.

The church is always crowded with visitors and worshippers, although evenings tend to be slightly quieter. Entrance to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher is free of charge (as of 2024).