Jerusalem, a city steeped in history and revered by countless pilgrims, holds within its heart a place of profound significance for Christians worldwide – Golgotha, also known as “the place of the skull” or “Calvary”. As a site that witnessed one of the most pivotal events in human history – the crucifixion of Jesus Christ – Golgotha is a hallowed ground that continues to draw visitors seeking to connect with their faith and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of spiritual heritage. In this post, we embark on a journey to explore the sacred grounds of Golgotha, understanding its historical context and spiritual importance.
The name Golgotha is derived from the Aramaic word ‘gulguta’ which means ’skull’. Later, the word was translated to Latin and became known as ‘calvary’ which means ‘place of skulls’.
The Biblical and Historical Importance
At the heart of Golgotha’s significance lies its biblical origin, as it is the place where Jesus was crucified according to the New Testament. The name “Golgotha” itself, which means “the place of the skull,” carries a sense of mystery and intrigue, adding to the site’s profound aura. Historically, Golgotha is believed to have been located outside the city walls during Jesus’s time, making it a site of public execution and a stark reminder of the Roman Empire’s dominance.
Since the fourth century, Christian tradition has pointed to a specific location within the Church of the Holy Sepulchre as the site of Jesus’s crucifixion and burial. Positioned well within the present-day walls of Jerusalem, which were rebuilt by the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century, this site has been venerated by millions of pilgrims seeking a connection with the central event of their faith.
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre, situated within Jerusalem’s Old City, houses the sacred grounds of Golgotha. As you enter the church, a stairway leads you to this most extravagantly decorated part of the complex, evoking a sense of reverence and solemnity. The two chapels within Golgotha, one Greek Orthodox and the other Catholic preserve the memory of Jesus’s crucifixion and form an essential part of the 14 Stations of the Cross for pilgrims.
Proponents of the traditional Holy Sepulchre location highlight the fact that the layout and size of first-century Jerusalem differed significantly from the city in the 16th century. They argue that the church’s site fell outside the pre-AD 70 city walls, lending credibility to its authenticity. However, there are opposing views that cast doubt on this claim, leading to an ongoing historical debate.
Defenders of the traditional site offer an intriguing argument, suggesting that the Church of the Holy Sepulchre’s location was brought within the city limits by Herod Agrippa (41–44). This argument proposes that Herod Agrippa built the so-called Third Wall, which encompassed a newly settled northern district, effectively incorporating the church site into the city. Contrarily, sceptics contend that during the time of Jesus’s crucifixion around AD 30, the site would have remained just outside the city.
The renowned historian Henry Chadwick (2003) added another perspective to the debate, suggesting that the planners of Hadrian’s rebuilding of the old city inadvertently confirmed the inclusion of Golgotha within the newly designed town wall.
In 2007, Dan Bahat, the former City Archaeologist of Jerusalem and Professor of Land of Israel Studies at Bar-Ilan University, provided valuable insights. He stated that archaeological evidence supports the belief that the area of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre was, in fact, outside the city during the first century. His findings unearthed six graves from that era, solidifying the historical context of the site.
Visiting Golgotha
For millions of Christians, visiting Golgotha offers a unique opportunity to connect with the core of their faith. It is a place of contemplation, where visitors can meditate on the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus for humanity. The feeling of standing on the same ground where such a significant event unfolded is truly humbling, and many pilgrims find solace and renewal in their beliefs during their time at Golgotha.
As you step through the entrance of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, an awe-inspiring journey awaits, leading you to the hallowed grounds of Calvary (Golgotha), where Jesus Christ’s crucifixion took place. This section of the church is a testament to divine devotion, adorned with the most exquisite decorations within the entire complex. To reach Calvary, a stairway guides your ascent, and from there, another stairway takes you to the ambulatory, continuing your spiritual exploration.
Calvary consists of two chapels, each bearing its own distinctive significance. The Greek Orthodox chapel houses the 12th Station of the Cross, situated directly over the rock of Calvary. Visitors can touch this sacred rock through a special hole in the floor beneath the chapel’s altar, an experience that draws pilgrims from all corners of the world. Expect a brief wait, as this particular site holds profound meaning for countless devotees. Protective glass on both sides of the altar also offers a glimpse of the revered rock. Positioned between the Catholic and Greek altars, a statue of Mary marks the 13th Station of the Cross, providing a poignant reminder of her presence during Christ’s crucifixion.
Conclusion
Golgotha, the revered site of Jesus’s crucifixion, is a place that transcends time, offering pilgrims and visitors an opportunity to delve into the heart of Christianity’s profound significance. Its presence within the Church of the Holy Sepulchre serves as a powerful reminder of the faith’s ancient roots and the enduring spirit of devotion that continues to draw people from all corners of the globe. As you stand on these sacred grounds, surrounded by the echoes of history and the essence of spirituality, the experience is one of deep reflection and connection with a legacy that has shaped the world for centuries. A visit to Golgotha in Jerusalem is an unforgettable journey into the very soul of Christianity, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who walk its hallowed path.
Useful Information
Opening Hours
Summer (April to September): Open daily from 05:00 to 21:00. Sundays the church closes at 20:00
Winter (October to March): Open daily from 04:00 to 19:00
Prices
Prices may change. Please check the official website for up-to-date information.
Further Reading
For more information on the historic sites related to the Gospel, read our Jesus Trail book. The trail stretches for about 65 kilometres and follows the most sacred and interesting sites of the Holy Land.
In this comprehensive and trusted trail guide, you will find all the information you will need to navigate all parts of the trail, along with elevation gain and mileage, and detailed descriptions of each site with its unique history, architecture, and religious significance – this guide includes everything you need to plan and execute your Jesus Trail adventure.
