Least Explored Jerusalem Site 4

Church of St. John the Baptist

The Church of St. John the Baptist is unexplored mainly due to its irregular hours.  Also, its entrance is somewhat hidden along the Christian Quarter Road.

Tradition says that the 5th century church was built over relics of John the Baptist.  When this church was destroyed by the Persians, it lay in ruins until the Crusaders rebuilt it in the 11th century.  This building remains largely unchanged until this day.

The site is also identified with the Knights Hospitallers who used it to care for knights injured during the many battles for Jerusalem.  The hospital was named for St. John.

This latter designation may have led to some confusion about the site as being the house of Zebedee, father of James and John.  Thus, some have questioned which John is it named for.

Although it is difficult to find, the outer door is usually open.  Step through and at least enjoy the small courtyard.  If the priest is available, he is amenable to opening the church for visitors.

The Recognizable Silver Dome of the Church of St. John the Baptist