The Tomb of the Virgin Mary, located in the lower section, is a site of profound historical and religious significance. A modest structure rises above a stone sarcophagus, marking the site where, according to tradition, the Holy Mother of God was laid to rest. To the east of the tomb is an Orthodox chapel housing the miraculous icon of the Jerusalem Mother of God, painted in the Russian style.
To the south lies a niche facing Mecca, designated for Muslim prayers. The western section of the church, belonging to the Armenian Church, venerates this area as the resting place of Joseph the Betrothed. The sanctuary also includes altars of the Syriac Jacobite and Coptic Churches, emphasizing its role as a shared place of worship among Christian denominations. This unity in diversity is a testament to the harmony and inclusivity that the Tomb of the Virgin Mary fosters.
The tomb also holds the revered site of the burial of Saint Stephen the Protomartyr, further enriching its spiritual significance. This sacred space, uniting diverse faith traditions, continues to stand as a testament to the interwoven histories and devotions of those who cherish its holy ground. The spiritual significance of the Tomb of the Virgin Mary fosters a deep sense of connection and reverence among all who visit.
The Mount of Olives, also known as Olivet, is not just a geographical landmark but a place of profound spiritual significance in the history of Christianity. This iconic ridge, serving as a natural border between Jerusalem and the Judean Desert, has been a witness to pivotal events in the Christian tradition. It was here that Jesus Christ entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, prayed at the foot of the mountain in the Garden of Gethsemane, and ascended into heaven from its summit.
Our pilgrimage unfolds as we set out from the Monastery of the Ascension, a historic site perched atop the Mount of Olives. This site, with its Chapel of John the Baptist marking the miraculous second discovery of John the Baptist's head, sets the tone for our journey. We then continue to the Monastery of the Second Coming, a place steeped in the stories of John and Anastasia of Olivet, adding depth to our pilgrimage experience.
Next on our route is the Chapel of the Ascension, also known as the Dome of the Ascension or Imprint Chapel. Here, a stone bears what is believed to be Christ's footprint, left as He ascended into heaven. Nearby, we’ll pause to admire one of the most breathtaking panoramas of Jerusalem before descending towards the Garden of Gethsemane. While this path can be walked, we’ll traverse it by car as planned.
The Garden of Gethsemane awaits, home to ancient olive trees and the Church of All Nations, also known as the Church of the Agony. This solemn and sacred space commemorates Christ’s prayer and suffering on the night of His betrayal. We’ll then ascend to the Church of Mary Magdalene, a striking symbol of Russian Jerusalem with its golden onion domes glinting in the sun.
Our final stop is the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, where the revered Jerusalem Icon of the Mother of God is housed. This marks the conclusion of our pilgrimage, which began from Point 12, the entrance to the Monastery of the Ascension on the Mount of Olives, and weaved through the sacred landmarks of this historic and spiritual landscape.
