From lowest point on Earth

On Monday we visited Masada and the Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth.


On Tuesday we traveled to the highest point in Jerusalem, a park with a fantastic view. Breath-taking is the only way to describe it.





























Of course we took the ritual family (touristy) shot with the Dome of the Rock in the "old city" behind us.


Next it was on the the walled "old city"... the original Jerusalem. We entered though the Jaffa Gate... one of many entrances to the walled city.

A visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher was not to be missed, Christian or not. It is a spectacular construction. For those unfamiliar, here is a photo of the church from back in 1885.


Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Other than some restoration work, its appearance has essentially not changed since 1854. The same small ladder below the top-right window is also visible in recent photographs; this has remained in the same position since 1854 over a disagreement to move it. (credit - Wikipedia)




While you may not see the ladder referred to regarding the b/w photo of the church, see our photo where the ladder still stands...interesting...no?




We didn't ...(well Dan did since he had been here before, but we, Rachel, Jed and I did not) realize the splendor we were about to see "inside" the church. Artwork in the form of mosaics, architecture the size and design that is wondrous for it's time of creation. The attention to detail and the marvelous craftsmanship is outstanding. Pictured here we see a huge mosaic depicting Christ brought down from the cross, cleaned and prepared for burial and finally being laid to rest. see the detail picture to realize it's beauty. Most of the mosaic pieces are no more then 1/4" to 1/2" squares. I have detailed a section of the mosaic, (red square)to show the intricacy of the work.














In addition, we saw what is referred to as the "Stone of Anointment". This was where Christs body was prepared for burial. Many people visiting the the church kneel by the stone and touch it to feel the presence of Christ and to pray.

Onto the rotunda with it's huge dome. The Suns light shines in through an opening in the very top.







On the rotunda floor under the dome, is Christs Tomb. Many years ago, the rocky cave area where Christ was originally buried and the rose was cut from it's setting and brought to the Church. It it housed in a tall wooden building within the church and people stand in line for hours on end to get a chance to view the inside of the building and see the rock. (this is what I was told, not sure if I have it totally right)



Here is another picture of the tomb I found on line on the internet.



In all we were in awe of the design,craftsmanship and overall enormity of the church.


We saw a lot, but probably not all there was to see. More about our trip later. Thanks for stopping by.... Larry