St. Mark's Church — Attraction in Jerusalem

A very interesting small church that we found in Jerusalem is that of St. Mark's in the Armenian Quarter. Opening hours 9-1pm and 3-5pm daily.

The present church dates back to the 12th century and was built upon the foundation of an earlier 4th century church. Of important note, 6th century inscriptions found during restorations in the 1940s, indicates this site to have been the location of the House of Mary, mother of St. Mark the Evangelist. It is also believed that the Last Supper took place upon the grounds of this church.

You can visit with the (free) guidance of church staff who will give a quick (English) explanation in the small worship hall. You will see decorative and gilded altar, iconic images and other items including a parchment painting of the Virgin and Child which is believed to have been painted by St. Mark himself.

You are then shown the direction to walk down into the basement, which would have been the location the Upper Room floor of the building which stood here during Christ's time. According to Syriac believes, this is where Christ's Last Supper occured.

While a bit challenging to find this church without the use of a hand map, we did very much enjoy our short visit. The church guide was kind and pleasant and greatly assisted in pointing out the highlights that you want to look for when visiting the Church of St. Mark's. In the end, it was well worth visiting this place.

Note: Photography is allowed throughout the church with the exception of St. Mark's painting. This is strictly off-limits for taking pictures given the age and delicacy of this...

Had been blessed to be here on 2008 April. This place has witnessed some of the most important events of early Christianity- including Jesus' last supper, Jesus' appearance to disciples after his resurrection- 2 times, Pentecost, selection of St.Mathias, the place where St.Peter went after angel released him from jail, St.Mary got baptized etc. As Pentecost happened here, this place is admired as the first Church in the world.

Currently it is administered by the Jerusalem Archbishop of Syriac Orthodox Church. Still so many miracles happen in this hard- to-find monastery in...

I fully agree with Abraham Oomen that (his quote) "This place has witnessed some of the most important events of early Christianity- including Jesus' last supper, Jesus' appearance to disciples after his resurrection- 2 times, Pentecost, selection of St.Mathias, the place where St.Peter went after angel released him from jail, St.Mary got baptized etc. As Pentecost happened here, this place is admired as the first Church...