Following Steps of Jesus Walking Tour, Jerusalem

Following Steps of Jesus Walking Tour (Self Guided), Jerusalem

Considered for centuries to be the center of the universe, Jerusalem is where the most famous figure in history, Jesus of Nazareth, fulfilled his divine mission by carrying a cross from the place of Pontius Pilate’s sentencing to Golgotha where he was crucified. This self-guided tour will retrace the steps of Jesus, allowing you to see what many consider some of the holiest places on our planet.

To take in all the sights it is wisest to start at the top of the Mount of Olives, near the Chapel of the Ascension, and walk downhill to the Tomb of the Virgin. The Old City panoramas are best in the morning, and the view of the Dome of the Rock from the Dominus Flevit’s altar window is justly famous. While the exact location of Jesus’s prayer and reflection is not known, it was in the general location of the Garden of Gethsemane – still a hive of olive trees.

Passing through the Lion’s Gate from the mount into the Old City, just like Jesus did, you will enter a quiet courtyard with trees and flowers for some rest. The compound contains the Church of St Anne and the large excavation area of the Pools of Bethesda, whose waters, believed to have medicinal qualities, were used by Jesus to cure a man who “had an infirmity thirty and eight years”, according to the Gospel of St John.

Walk the Stations of the Cross – the path that Jesus walked carrying the cross to Calvary. Via Dolorosa, all within the ancient city walls, is breathtaking and humbling at the same time. Go inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre and visit the tomb as well as the stone where Jesus was anointed with oils and wrapped in burial cloths.

Our self-guided walk takes you to these and other significant places to be experienced without need of a guide. Give it a shot!
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Following Steps of Jesus Walking Tour Map

Guide Name: Following Steps of Jesus Walking Tour
Guide Location: Israel » Jerusalem (See other walking tours in Jerusalem)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 12
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
Author: vickyc
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
  • Chapel of the Ascension
  • Church of the Pater Noster
  • Dominus Flevit Church
  • Garden of Gethsemane
  • Tomb of the Virgin Mary
  • Lions’ Gate
  • Churches of St. Anne
  • Pools of Bethesda
  • Ecce Homo Arch
  • Via Dolorosa (Way of Sorrow)
  • Church of the Holy Sepulchre / Christ's Tomb
  • Garden Tomb
1
Chapel of the Ascension

1) Chapel of the Ascension

The Chapel of the Ascension is part of a larger complex with a rich history, transitioning from a Christian church and monastery to an Islamic mosque. Tradition holds that this site marks the spot where Jesus "was carried up into heaven" forty days after his resurrection, leaving behind a footprint on the rock inside the octagonal shrine.

Before Emperor Constantine's conversion to the faith, early Christians commemorated Christ's ascension in a cave on the Mount of Olives, likely used for worship gatherings due to its safety. Around 390, a chapel was built here by Poimenia, a prominent Roman woman; however, the current building was constructed by the Crusaders and later converted into a mosque by Salah ad-Din in 1198, with a mihrab pointing towards Mecca (in the south wall) added shortly after. The presence of a mosque on the site is not as bizarre as it might seem, considering that Islam recognizes Jesus as a prophet.

The adjacent tiny burial crypt is revered by adherents of all three Abrahamic religions: Jews believe it holds the prophetess Huldah from the 7th century BCE, Christians associate it with the 5th-century saint Pelagia the Harlot (or Penitent), and Muslims attribute it to the 8th-century Sufi mystic Rabi'a al-Adawiyya. What is certain is that the Christian tradition of Saint Pelagia is the oldest.
2
Church of the Pater Noster

2) Church of the Pater Noster

Past a grove of ancient olive trees, this church, set within an enclosed garden, was built over the grotto (cave) where Jesus is believed to have preached about the ultimate conflict of good and evil leading to the end of the world. The Crusaders, believing it to also be the place where Jesus taught his disciples the Lord's Prayer, gave the church its present name – "Pater Noster", Latin for "Our Father".

The original Eleona Basilica ("Basilica of Olives"), commissioned by Emperor Constantine in AD 326, with supervision by his mother, Saint Helena, was destroyed by the Persians 300 years later. While its ruins have been partly restored and are of interest to visitors, the current building dates back to the late 19th century when it was overseen by contemplative Carmelite nuns.

Inside, a short flight of stairs from the south side of the open courtyard leads to the tomb of the Princesse de la Tour d'Auvergne who acquired the property in 1868 and had the Lord's Prayer inscribed in 62 languages on exquisitely tiled panels in the entrance and cloister (their number has more than doubled since then, also including various dialects).

Tip:
If you have trouble finding the panel in your language, ask for help in the shop, as they have a map of all panels and plaques.
3
Dominus Flevit Church

3) Dominus Flevit Church

Its name meaning "The Lord Wept", this Franciscan chapel on the western slope of the Mount of Olives recalls the incident described in the Gospels where Jesus, while riding toward Jerusalem on the first Palm Sunday, had his "great lament" for the future fate of the Jewish people and of the Second Temple. Designed by Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi to stylize the shape of a teardrop, it was built in the 1950s on the ruins of a 7th-century chapel, with part of the original apse preserved.

The views over the Dome of the Rock and the Old City from both the altar window and the serene gardens are justly famous and enough to justify a visit. Rich in symbolism, both physically and spiritually, Dominus Flevit also has a collection of carved stone ossuaries (100 BC to 300 AD) one can observe just after entering its gates and, more importantly perhaps, a fine early Christian mosaic from a 5th-century monastery, preserved in situ outdoors, to the side of the church door.
4
Garden of Gethsemane

4) Garden of Gethsemane (must see)

A place of great resonance in Christianity, this beautiful walled garden at the foot of the Mount of Olives, revered since the apostolic period, is the site where – according to the four Gospels of the New Testament – Jesus experienced the agonizing premonition of his passion and death, and where he was arrested the night before his crucifixion. The name "Gethsemane" is derived from Aramaic and means "oil press," likely indicating that the area was once used for pressing olive oil.

Beyond the religious significance, the garden is essentially an urban olive orchard, with eight distinctive ancient trees among others. Carbon dating estimates the eight trees to be over 900 years old (as such, amongst the oldest known to science), having descended from the same parent tree – possibly itself a descendant from the original trees of Christ's time. They still produce fruit but are fenced off so unless you gracefully tip the gatekeeper, you can't go walking among them.

Also be sure to visit the adjacent Church of All Nations on the grounds, also known as the Basilica of the Agony, which holds a section of bedrock believed to be where Jesus prayed before his arrest – but make very sure your knees, shoulders and upper arms are properly covered, preferably with clothing and not just a shawl, or you will be refused entry. Women should avoid wearing shorts of any length.
5
Tomb of the Virgin Mary

5) Tomb of the Virgin Mary

Tucked away in the Valley of Jehoshaphat, just beyond the City Walls and alongside Gethsemane, lies a sanctuary steeped in mystique: the underground chamber believed to be the resting place of the Virgin Mary. What sets this site apart is its unique entrance – a descent down nearly 50 Crusader-built steps, a symbolic journey into the depths of faith.

The unassuming facade belies the rich history within, marked by the grand staircase erected by the Crusaders and the side tombs halfway down, purportedly reserved for royal burials during the 12th century. Among these, the tomb on the right, descending, holds special reverence as the resting place of Saints Anne and Joachim, parents of Mary.

The roots of this sanctum trace back to the 1st century AD, with the current cruciform crypt, predominantly hewn from solid rock, reflecting Byzantine craftsmanship. Within its eastern branch, adorned with icons and embellishments, stands the Tomb of Mary, a focal point of veneration for Armenian, Greek, Coptic, and Syrian Christians alike. Interestingly, Muslims also hold this site sacred, as legend has it that Muhammad witnessed a divine light emanating from the tomb of his "sister Mary" during his Night Journey to Jerusalem. Outside, adjacent to the facade, lies the Cave of Gethsemane, also known as the Cave of the Betrayal, where tradition places Judas's infamous act.
6
Lions’ Gate

6) Lions’ Gate

The Lions’ Gate takes its name after the pairs of stone animals carved into the design. Legend has it that sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, who built the wall around Jerusalem in the 16th century, had a nightmare in which he saw lions about to devour him as he had failed to secure defenses for this part of the citadel.

Waking up, he ordered a wall to be built with the lions placed at the city gate. There are speculations as to whether the carvings are actually lions and not panthers, in which case they may depict animals from the crest of the Mameluke sultan Baybars, and thus be part of an older building.

Another name for this point of entry is “Bab Sitt Maryam” and it refers to Mary, mother of Jesus. Legend has it that she has been laid to rest somewhere around the Kidron Valley. In Christian tradition and lore, this gate is also known as St. Stephen's, the first Christian martyr who was stoned to death. On a Palm Sunday, there is a procession recreating the historical route of Jesus from Scripture, passing through the gate from the Mount into the Old City.

The Arabic name for the gate is "Meshikuli", which in more modern terms means “wicket” – a small opening in a wall – through which, back in the day, people could watch those approaching and, in case of attack, pour boiling oil or tar onto the enemies' heads.

Why You Should Visit:
Impressive and incredibly well-preserved historic sight, considering it has never been restored!

Tip:
Can get crowded, especially on Fridays, because of the influx of Muslims coming for prayer at the nearby al-Aqsa Mosque.
7
Churches of St. Anne

7) Churches of St. Anne (must see)

St. Anne’s Church is found next to the Bethesda Pool by the Lion’s Gate in Jerusalem, almost at the outset of the Via Dolorosa and, as with most structures in the city, the history of this location is fascinating. This church is a great example of a 12th-century Crusader house of worship. Although throughout centuries the building has been used in many different ways, most of its original design, rather severe in appearance, has been preserved, in large part, due to the 19th century restoration.

St. Anne’s was built in 1131-1133 over the presumed site where grandmother of Jesus, Anne, gave birth to his mother, Mary. As such, the church replaced the destroyed Byzantine temple that stood on this site previously. One of the interesting things about it is the asymmetry. When visiting, be sure to check out the asymmetrical style, count the number of steps on the one side and then the other.

Another peculiarity is the incredible acoustics of the building. Designed to accommodate Gregorian chants, the church is open to singers, but only those with religious repertoire. Music from any religion is welcome. The reverberations are simply phenomenal, particularly for the tenor or soprano solo voices.

Why You Should Visit:
Landmark location – at the start of the Via Dolorosa, above street level.
Attractive architecture – rebuilt by the Crusaders in the 12th century, the church is also historically interesting.
Extremely beautiful church garden.
Excavations of the Pools of Bethesda may induce those archaeologically-minded to stick around a bit longer.

Tip:
If you intend to visit, come early in the morning so as to enjoy this place while it's not so crowded.
If you come here to sing alone or with a group, take advantage of the acoustics and hold the last note to let the room sustain it for you. The reverb is measured in seconds.
8
Pools of Bethesda

8) Pools of Bethesda

The Pool of Bethesda is a small body of water found in the Muslim part of Jerusalem, en route to the Beth Zeta Valley. In the Bible, there is an account of such place near the Sheep Gate, encircled with five grand colonnades. Its water is considered to have healing properties.

While there is no conclusive evidence that this is the pool mentioned in the Gospel (the only recorded mention of it is that in the writing of John), many a people regard this place sacred all the same.

The existence of this place was confirmed in the 19th century when archaeologists discovered remnants of the pool which coincidentally matched to a tee the detailed description from the New Testament.

This tranquil location is a must-visit for those in the belief that this is the source of healing water mentioned in the Bible. However, even the non-believers may find it interesting from a purely archaeological standpoint.
9
Ecce Homo Arch

9) Ecce Homo Arch

Thousands of pilgrims each year walk under the impressive stone arch spanning the narrow Via Dolorosa in the Muslim Quarter, near Station I and II, without realizing the extensive remains of first-century Jerusalem lying beneath their feet. For centuries many believed this arch was part of an ancient arch in the Antonia Fortress where, according to the New Testament (John 19-15), the Roman governor Pontius Pilate presented Jesus — beaten, crowned with thorns and clothed in a purple robe — to a hostile mob with the words: “Ecce Homo” (“Behold the man” or “This is the man” in Latin), prior to sentencing him to death.

This belief persists in many publications, although archaeologists prove that this arch was built after the times of Jesus. Some say it was originally a city gate from the Herod Agrippa I period (41-44 AD), while others reckon it is a remaining part of the monumental ramp built by the Romans in 70 AD during the Jewish Rebellion, whereas others claim it was part of the three-arch Roman victory gate that served entrance to a great public forum (plaza) constructed by emperor Hadrian during reconstruction of the city in 135 AD — a century after Jesus was crucified.

A big central arch seen in the street today used to have smaller arches on both sides. Eventually, the small northern arch was integrated into the adjacent Convent of the Sisters of Zion, built in 1857; one can enter the monastic church and view the northern arch free of charge. The Church of Ecce Homo, also known as the Basilica of Ecce Homo, is named for Pontius Pilate's Ecce Homo speech, which is likely to have taken place on the pavement below this church.
10
Via Dolorosa (Way of Sorrow)

10) Via Dolorosa (Way of Sorrow) (must see)

Via Dolorosa is the Latin for the “Way of Grief” or the “Way of Suffering”. It is interesting that while most signs in Jerusalem are in Hebrew, English and Arabic, this road is the only one known by its Latin name. The road is popular among Christian pilgrims who believe it traces the steps of Jesus carrying a cross en route to his crucifixion.

14 Stations mark the path along this route, including five of them within the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. Although anyone can walk the Via Dolorosa at any time, every Friday around 3pm, a group is lead by the Franciscan monks along the path, offering the best way to experience the walk. This area can be very crowded and the signs a bit hard to find. At spots, the walk backtracks a bit and station IX can be particularly difficult to locate. Some may find the noisy streets a bit distracting while searching for a quiet spot to pray or contemplate the area's religious significance.

There have been several different versions of the path throughout history; the current one was set in the 1700s and follows the route charted by the early Byzantine Christians. The stations are marked with the round signs, showing Roman numerals, marking the Stations of the Cross. Different religious groups start the walk at different sites.

Usually, the journey begins at the site where Jesus was tried and convicted, in the Muslim part of Old Jerusalem – near Lion’s gate, although some may opt for Herod’s Palace at the Jaffa Gate. The route ends at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and covers approximately 500 meters.

There is no entrance fee to the Via Dolorosa. There are many churches along the way to visit and several gift shops offering religious items. Re-enactments are frequently held along the Via Dolorosa, especially around the Holy Week.

Tips:
The cobbled stone path can be very slippery. If it rains, some of the road sections must be walked with extreme caution. Certain parts can be rather steep, with many stairs and inclines.
Unless you wake up at 5am, don't expect much time for a quiet contemplation here, as there's too much hustle & bustle around and you will need to walk quickly or be run over by a motorcycle, human, or a goat!
Best come with a tour guide or bring a very comprehensive map/book and have a camera ready! Besides the spiritual significance of the area, the artwork and architecture are quite impressive too.
11
Church of the Holy Sepulchre / Christ's Tomb

11) Church of the Holy Sepulchre / Christ's Tomb (must see)

One of the most revered destinations in the Old City, this site holds unparalleled significance for Christians worldwide. Commonly referred to as the Church of the Resurrection, its somber, cavernous interior encompasses four stations of the Via Dolorosa, drawing crowds of pilgrims year-round. (The terminus of the Via Dolorosa lies just beyond the expansive outdoor courtyard.)

Welcoming visitors at the entrance is the Chapel of the Franks, leading to the towering interior featuring a Greek Orthodox crucifixion altar, believed to mark the spot of Jesus' crucifixion. Adjacent to it, the prominent Stone of Unction serves as a reminder of the place where Jesus's body was prepared for burial. Further inside, past the Chapel of the Angel, lies a marble-encased tomb, purportedly the very place where Jesus was laid to rest. A majestic vaulted dome crowns the tomb, emanating a solemn stream of light from above.

Commissioned by Constantine the Great following his conversion to Christianity in AD 326, the church has weathered centuries of neglect, desecration, and damage amid shifting rulership in the city. A collaborative restoration effort in 1959, spearheaded by the Latin, Greek, and Armenian communities, preserved what could be salvaged. The resulting structure is a patchwork of Byzantine, Crusader, medieval, and modern architectural styles. Control of the church is scrupulously divided among various Christian denominations, with disputes over custodial responsibilities even extending to the cleaning of steps.

Tip:
It's advisable to arrive early and come prepared, as signage and guided tours are scarce. Proper attire is essential for entry.
12
Garden Tomb

12) Garden Tomb (must see)

This archaeological site in a landscape setting, outside but within view of the city walls, holds a special appeal for Protestants seeking a more authentic sacred space than the traditional Church of the Holy Sepulchre. While the Anglican staff managing the site do not assert dogmatic claims regarding its authenticity as the tomb of Jesus' resurrection, its alignment with Gospel narratives makes it a compelling possibility for many and, more importantly, a visual reminder that "He is not here, for He is Risen!"

Regardless of religious affiliation, this spot is 'felt' by many as the most peaceful in Jerusalem, bringing a very welcome contrast to the noise of a very lively city. At the end of a visit, you will have seen a tomb that is at least similar to that of Jesus, and you will have heard a testimony of the saving power of the empty tomb. You will have experienced a communion of believers from so many different countries singing in their native languages. If you are a Christian, you will be truly moved; if you are a skeptic, you might be impressed, too.

Tip:
For those interested in a guided tour, emailing in advance is recommended. The tour typically lasts around 20 minutes, allowing ample time for personal reflection, reading, and photography amidst the tranquil surroundings.

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