The Via Dolorosa: walking the Way of the Cross

The Via Dolorosa ("Way of Suffering") winds through the narrow streets of Jerusalem's Old City, tracing the path Jesus walked from Pilate's judgment hall to Golgotha. The traditional route has 14 Stations of the Cross — nine along the streets and the final five inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

Start early. The first station is near the Lion's Gate at the site of the Antonia Fortress. Every Friday at 3 PM, the Franciscan friars lead a procession along the route — a powerful experience, though crowded. For a more contemplative walk, go at 7 AM on a weekday when many shops are still shuttered and the stones echo with your footsteps.

At each station, your guide will read the corresponding Scripture passage. The cumulative effect of walking the entire route — physically climbing where Jesus climbed under the weight of the cross — is one of the most moving experiences in the Holy Land. Allow at least 90 minutes for the full walk, more if your group pauses for reflection at each stop.