Jerusalem in the Time of Jesus. Walls and Urban Infrastructure
At the beginning of the Christian era, Jerusalem was a great city, one of the most beautiful in the world. Never in its history had it enjoyed such splendor as that brought about by the ambitious project Herod the Great had planned for it and begun to carry out. This...
Interview: The Kawas a Living Tradition in the Holy Land
Visitors to Jerusalem may occasionally notice distinguished men in traditional uniforms carrying ceremonial staffs during major Church celebrations. These are the Kawas — a living symbol of the long and continuous Christian presence in the Holy Land. The “Kawas” (also...
Domine Ivimus! A Graffito in the Depths of the Holy Sepulcher
It seems like the Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher is constantly under construction. About ten years ago, the Edicule of the Lord’s Tomb was completely renovated; now the time has come to redo the floor. One must acknowledge that both the history and the topography of...
Interview with Fr. Francesco Ielpo Custody of the Holy Land
On June 24, 2025, Pope Leo XIV confirmed the election of our brother, Fr. Francesco Ielpo, OFM, as Custos of the Holy Land and Guardian of Mount Zion. What is the Mission of the Franciscan Custody in the Holy Land? The mission of the Franciscans in the Holy Land dates...