The 20th-century Church of All Nations, also known as the Basilica of the Agony, is of special significance to Christians, as it is believed to stand on the site where Jesus prayed on the eve of his death. Experience the contemplative atmosphere of the nearby Garden of Gethsemane and see the rock where Jesus is thought to have prayed.
Examine the eye-catching mosaic pediment on the church’s façade. Constructed in 1924, the Church of All Nations is relatively new, though the history of the site it stands on can be traced back to many centuries earlier. Older places of worship previously stood here, including a 4th-century Byzantine basilica that was lost to an 8th-century earthquake and a chapel built by Crusaders.
The current church was constructed between 1919 and 1924, using funds donated from many different countries. Look to the ceiling to see the national symbols of a dozen nations that contributed.
A spectacular mosaic, spreading across a pediment above the row of pillars, dominates the church’s façade. The colorful mosaic depicts Jesus as the link between God and humankind. Find more mosaics inside the church. These represent scenes from the Bible, such as the infamous Judas kiss and arrest of Jesus.
The interior also features stained-glass windows and domes with gold and midnight-blue adornments that are reminiscent of the night sky. Head to the high altar to see the church’s star attraction, the rock upon which Jesus is said to have prayed. The slab is surrounded by a wrought iron wreath. Many worshippers touch the exposed rock as they offer their own prayers to God.
While here, stroll around the adjacent Garden of Gethsemane. Some of the ancient olive trees here are thought to be descendants of those in place during the time of Jesus.
Find the Church of All Nations at the foot of the Mount of Olives, next to Jerusalem’s Old City. The church is open daily, from early morning until evening, with free admission. Remember that the church is an active site of worship, so be quiet and refrain from disturbing worshippers inside.
