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Mosque, Chapel and Dome of Ascension

Introduction

The Mosque of Ascension is situated at the Mount of Olives. It is also known as the Chapel of Ascension and this is the place, where according to tradition Jesus ascended to heaven 40 days after resurrection. The octagon shaped Dome, built in the center of an enclosed yard  was built over earlier  Byzantine and Crusaders period structures.

 

History

The first church on the hill was funded by Poemenia, a wealthy Roman woman who was a member of the imperial family, around AD 380.

Until then, the site Jesus’ traditional ascension into heaven had been traditionally associated with a cave on the Mount of Olives that was selected by Emperor Constantine as one of the three “mystic caves” where notable Christian mysteries occurred.

By 670 the original structure had been destroyed and rebuilt but the English pilgrim Arculf reported to his countrymen that the footprints were still to be seen in the dust of its floor.

An Arab sits at the entry door to issue tickets to visitors
Main facade of the mosque
A small arch above the entry door to the mosque
This main dome of the mosque is a Muslim addition in the 12th century

 

In the 12th century, the Crusaders had constructed a newer building of their own to replace the Byzantine ruins. The Muslims took these changes even further by topping the once-open rooftop with a dome, and sealing off the archways that surround the courtyard with walls. The sacred stone with its footprint was moved from its central positioning to make way for a Muslim mihrab.

Footprint of Christ - this is the exact spot where he Ascended into Heaven
Close up of the right foot of Jesus (Hazrat Issa A.S.)
A small mihrab next to the foot of Jesus
Two souvenirs sellers at the front of the mosque

 

Adjoining the old building is a newer mosque, where Muslims honor the Ascension. Today, several Christian communities are permitted to celebrate Mass during the Feast of Ascension in the chapel courtyard each year. Latin Christians are permitted to celebrate within the building.

To the right of the entrance to the Dome of the Ascension is a small mosque built in 1620.

This is the minaret of the 17th century mosque
Minaret and external wall of the Ottoman Mosque
A cat sitting on a chair was enjoying early November sunshine
A closer look at the cute looking cat