Church of Alexander Nevsky, Jerusalem

Another interesting church well worth visiting in the Christian Quarter is the Church of Alexander Nevsky (Alexander Hospice), located just across from the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer. This is a Russian Orthodox temple, constructed in 1859, named after a 13th-century Russian warrior-prince, and is quite a neat place to explore if you are keen on church visits.

In the first room, near the entrance, you will find, among other items of interest, portraits of the Russian royal family members. The second room holds an impressive iconostasis, wall paintings and cased items on display.

Perhaps of a greater interest at the site are the archaeological excavations started in 1883 — even before the church was built — attracting worldwide attention and leading to the site becoming known as the “Russian Excavations”. These excavations have revealed section of a Herodian city wall, dating back to the 2nd century A.D., as well as a section of a colonnade street and arch structure. The city wall structure, in particular, is significant as it gives credibility to the belief that the nearby Church of the Holy Sepulchre was built on the grounds originally outside the city wall and where, it is also believed, Jesus was crucified. Archaeology buffs will find this part of the visit particularly enjoyable.

The Alexander Nevsky Church can be conveniently visited within 15-20 minutes for those with tight sightseeing schedule. The opening hours are 9am to 6pm daily; the entry fee is NIS 5 per adult.