Discovering the Ecce Homo Church on the Via Dolorosa

The Ecce Homo Church, meaning “Behold the man” in Latin, is one of the most spiritually significant landmarks in the Old City of Jerusalem. Located directly on the historic Via Dolorosa, it is a powerful stop for Christian travelers to the Holy Land, offering a unique connection to the Passion of Christ. Each year, thousands of pilgrims pass under its famous arch, unaware they are walking beneath remnants of first-century Jerusalem.

Discover the Biblical Beauty of St. George's Monastery in Wadi Qelt

The impressive monastery and Holy Land destination, located west of Jericho, can be reached by a narrow road that follows the route of Wadi Qelt. Alternatively, travelers may drive along the Jericho–Jerusalem highway until they see a sign pointing toward the historic monastery.

The Holy Family's Journey to Egypt

In Matthew 2:13-15, we read:

“When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. ‘Get up,’ he said, ‘take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.’ So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, where he stayed until the death of Herod.”

This sacred passage is a cornerstone of Christian tradition. It recounts the divine protection over Jesus’ early life and how the Holy Family fled persecution by Herod the Great. Seeking safety, Mary, Joseph, and the infant Jesus crossed into Egypt, fulfilling prophecy: “Out of Egypt I called my son” (Hosea 11:1, echoed in Matthew 2:15). Their journey—fraught with danger, faith, and divine guidance—would become a treasured part of biblical heritage.

“Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you.” – Psalm 84:4

Known in the Arab world as al-Muallaqah, meaning “The Suspended” church, and by Christians as the Hanging Church, this sacred site is Cairo’s most famous Coptic church. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the church is uniquely built above a gatehouse of the ancient Babylon Fortress in Old Cairo, with its nave seemingly suspended above a passageway. This architectural marvel, combined with centuries of faith and tradition, makes the Hanging Church a must-see destination for pilgrims and travelers alike.