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Jerusalem

Isang post na ibinahagi ni Ryan Agoncillo (@ryan_agoncillo) noong Mar 16, 2019 nang 9:43pm PDT

Aside from visiting the city of Rome, any devout Catholic wouldn't let pass taking a trip to Israel. It is, after all, the birthplace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

So, if you plan to visit Holy Land anytime soon we've listed a few spots that you probably want to tick off your checklist so you could follow the life and footsteps of Christ:

1. Church of the Nativity

Probably one of the most visited sites of Catholic interest and the oldest major church in the Holy Land is the Church of the Nativity. As the name suggests, it is believed to be the birthplace of Jesus. Currently, the church is considered a UNESCO World Heritage site as it was constructed in 327 BC by Emperor Constantine I.

2. Jordan River

Another significant place in this roster is the Jordan River where Jesus was known to be baptized. Admission inside is free, however, a baptismal robe must be rented if you plan to be baptized. Anyone who plans to come inside is expected to dress modestly so clothing that will cover your arms and legs is a must.

3. Sea of Galilee

If you go northwards of the Jordan River, you'll find the Sea of Galilee. The 166 sq km body of water is known for being the place where Jesus recruited four of his apostles: Peter, Andrew, John, and James; and is also where he performed many of his miracles like the calming of the storm and the miraculous catch of fish.

4. Kafr Kanna

Although a subject for debate among scholars, Kafr Kanna is the most likely site where Jesus performed his very first miracle during the Wedding at Cana where Jesus turned water into wine.

5. Dead Sea

A few miles south of the Jordan River, is the Dead Sea. It is famous for its superlatives, being the lowest, saltiest, and harshest sea hence its name. It is also known for its fascinating history, reaching back to the time of Abraham. Must-try activities would be floating to your heart's content and try having a mud bath.

6. Mount of Beatitudes

The hill in the area of Korazim Plateau is believed to be where Jesus delivered his Sermon on the Mount. Although the actual location is not certain, the present site has been commemorated for more than 1600 years.

7. Gethsemane Garden

This urban garden at the foot of the Mount of Olives is a place where Jesus underwent the agony in the garden and was arrested before his crucifixion. The olive trees surrounding the garden are among the oldest known to science and dates back to 1092 AD. Currently, the bedrock where Jesus is believed to have prayed is located right beside the said garden at the Church of All Nations.

8. Via Dolorosa

This processional route in the Old City of Jerusalem is believed to be the path that Jesus walked on his way to being crucified. The route has been established since the 18th century and is marked by Nine Stations of the Cross where the remaining five is inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

9. Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Aside from the last five sites, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre holds the two holiest sites in Christianity: the site where Jesus was crucified and Jesus' empty tomb. The tomb is enclosed by a 19th-century shrine called the Aedicule while the church itself was consecrated in 335.