In 2012, I was in Jerusalem and visited the Holy Sepulchre – this is the spot revered by all Christian faiths as the place where Jesus was crucified. This church – which dates back to the Roman period though little of that building remains – was the model for all Templar churches.
The Holy Sepulchre is built on the traditional site of Jesus’ crucifixion at Calvary (or Golgotha) and the empty tomb where he was believed to be buried and resurrected. The Edicule is a small, ornate building within the church that encloses the tomb. The Altar of the Crucifixion is a prominent area where the Rock of Calvary, the spot where the cross was placed, is encased in glass.
Then there is the Stone of Anointing which is a marble slab where Jesus’ body is said to have been prepared for burial. The Holy Sepulchre has been rebuilt and restored multiple times over centuries, but the traditional locations of the crucifixion and burial have remained constant. The church is shared among several Christian denominations, including the Catholic, Greek Orthodox, and Armenian Apostolic Churches.
A set of agreements and regulations dating back to 1757 govern the management and upkeep of the church, ensuring that all denominations have a voice in its care. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre continues to be a major pilgrimage site for Christians from all over the world.
If you would like to know more about the Knights Templar, then get your hands on a copy of my book: The Knights Templar – History & Mystery. Published by Pen & Sword and available on Amazon, Waterstones, Barnes & Noble, and WHSmith. Don’t miss out on your copy!
Absolutely Stunning. Thanks so much for sharing. Be blessed.
Beautiful!
Thanks for this post. It is gratifying to see the history, faith, belief and committment. Well done and thank you.
Thank you for your kind words