The Church of the Condemnation and Imposition of the Cross
The Church of the Condemnation and Imposition of the Cross is a sacred Christian site located at Station 2 of the Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem. It commemorates the profound moment when Jesus Christ was condemned by Pontius Pilate and took up His cross on the way to Calvary.
John 19:16 – “Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led him away.”
A Sacred Landmark for Christian Pilgrims
This church stands in a tranquil Franciscan compound adjacent to the Church of the Flagellation. Together, they mark one of the most powerful sites visited on Christian Holy Land tours in Jerusalem. The location is historically known as the Judgment Hall of Pontius Pilate.
John 18:28 – “Then led they Jesus from Caiaphas unto the hall of judgment...”
Historical and Architectural Significance
Originally constructed during the Byzantine era, the church was later converted into a mosque and then restored to its Catholic roots in the early 20th century (1903–1904). Today, it features five stunning white domes and stained-glass windows that depict scenes from the Passion of Christ.
Scriptural Depictions Within the Church
The interior of the church brings the Scriptures to life through vivid art and preserved ancient stones. One stained-glass window shows Pilate washing his hands:
Matthew 27:24 – “When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing... he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude.”
Another panel shows Christ being led away:
John 19:16 – “Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified.”
On the wall of the nave, there’s an emotional reference to Christ’s compassion even in suffering:
John 19:26–27 – “When Jesus therefore saw his mother... he saith unto her, Woman, behold thy son!... Behold thy mother!”
One of the church’s most remarkable features is the preserved Roman stone pavement, believed to be part of the original judgment seat.
John 19:13 – “When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus forth, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called the Pavement.”
Experience It on Your Holy Land Tour
Most Christian group Israel tours to Jerusalem include this sacred stop, allowing believers to walk the path Jesus walked. As you visit, you’ll also experience the nearby Church of the Flagellation, where Roman soldiers scourged our Lord.
For more insights into Christian travel to Jerusalem, explore top resources like GoIsrael.com and Christianity.com.
Walk in the footsteps of Christ. Plan your unforgettable Christian pilgrimage to Jerusalem today.
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