Located in the center of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, The Catholicon was originally built by the Crusaders, replacing the Basilica of Constantine.  Under the Status Quo arrangements, the Catholicon belongs to the Greek Orthodox, and it functions as the their primary space for liturgical services. This large apsidal church was extensively renovated during the 1958-1997 restoration of the Holy Sepulchre.

The Omphalos

Its impressive dome, 29 meters high, features an image of Christ Pantocrator. The interior includes the Patriarchal throne and features elaborate Orthodox iconography.

By Greek-Orthodox tradition, a flower-shaped stone in the center of the Catholicon marks the Omphalos, the spiritual and cosmological center of the world

Art in the Catholicon

The Catholicon’s artwork reflects traditional Greek Orthodox iconography and decoration. It is dominated by the large Christ Pantocrator in the central dome, with the Four Evangelists in its pendentives. The iconographic program includes scenes from the life of Christ, images of saints, and biblical narratives, executed in the Byzantine style with rich colors and gold backgrounds. The iconostasis (altar screen) features intricately painted icons following Orthodox tradition, separating the nave from the sanctuary area.

The present decoration largely dates to the extensive restoration work completed in the late 20th century, though it follows traditional Orthodox artistic conventions.

Touring the Catholicon

If its gleaming and soft light the Catholicon offers visitors a profound Orthodox spiritual atmosphere. When Greek Orthodox services occur, the rich sounds of Greek chanting fill the air.  Photography is permitted but respectful behavior is required.

A guided visit to the Catholicon can be combined with a tour of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.