About this place
Overview and significance
Church of the Sepulchre of Saint Mary, also Tomb of the Virgin Mary or the Church of the Assumption, is a Christian church built around an ancient Judean rock-cut tomb in the Kidron Valley – at the foot of Mount of Olives, in East Jerusalem – believed by Christians to be the burial place of Mary, the mother of Jesus. The Status Quo, a 250-year-old understanding between religious communities, applies to the site.
History and heritage
The site is tied to the history and living traditions of Israel. Distinguish oral tradition, ceremonial practice and documented archaeology, and treat sacred spaces with care.
Features and attractions
Among its defining features, church of the Sepulchre of Saint Mary, also Tomb of the Virgin Mary (Hebrew: קבר מרים; Arabic: قبر السيدة العذراء مريم; Greek: Τάφος της Παναγίας; Armenian: Սուրբ Մարիամ Աստվածածնի գերեզման; Georgian: ღვთისმშობლის სამარხი) or the Church of the Assumption (Latin: Ecclesia Assumptionis), is a Christian church built around an ancient Judean rock-cut tomb in the Kidron Valley – at the foot of Mount of Olives, in East Jerusalem – believed by Christians to be the burial place of Mary, the mother of Jesus.
Activities and experiences
Typical visits include guided tours, quiet viewing, photography where permitted and learning from on-site interpreters or community guides.
Visitor information
Check opening hours, entry fees, dress expectations and photography rules before arrival. Some sites limit access during ceremonies or maintenance.
This editorial information is a starting guide. Verify current visitor rules, fees and access with the official operator.