In the final days before the crucifixion, Jesus of Nazareth was arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane and underwent a series of interrogations and imprisonments. The Gospel accounts describe multiple locations where Jesus was held: first at the house of Annas, then at the palace of High Priest Caiaphas, and finally at the Roman Praetorium under Pontius Pilate. Over the centuries, various Christian denominations have identified different sites they believe to be these historic locations. Today, five distinct places in Jerusalem claim to be authentic imprisonment sites, each supported by different traditions and archaeological evidence.

1. Petrus in Gallicantu Church, Mount Zion

The name “Gallicantu” means “cock’s crow” in Latin, referencing Peter’s denial of Jesus before the rooster crowed. Located on the eastern slopes of Mount Zion, this church, built in 1931, stands atop several layers of older buildings. Archaeological excavations have revealed a complex series of ancient structures, including first-century ritual baths (mikvaot), storage rooms, and a deep cistern.

The underground chambers include a series of holding cells and passages carved into the bedrock. The most significant feature is a seemingly large pit prison, accessed by a narrow shaft. By local tradition, it dates to the first century, and matches the description of ancient Jewish detention facilities. Moreover, Byzantine-era crosses etched into its shaft in its ceiling suggest early Christian recognition of the site’s significance. Today’s visitors can descend into this chamber through a stairway added in modern times.

2. The Armenian Caiaphas Church on Mount Zion

Situated at the summit of Mount Zion, this partially constructed Armenian church represents one of the most ambitious modern religious building projects in Jerusalem. The site’s significance stems from extensive archaeological findings from the 1970s, which uncovered remains of an elaborate first-century mansion. The excavations revealed high-quality stone masonry, decorative elements, and sophisticated water systems typical of wealthy Jerusalemite homes from the Second Temple period.

Within the complex stands a medieval chapel containing what the Armenian tradition identifies as Jesus’ prison cell. The small, dark room features ancient stone walls and architectural elements that the Armenians associate with the first century as well. Though construction of the new church remains ongoing, the historical layers beneath tell a compelling story of Jerusalem in the time of the Second Temple. Unfortunately, the site is closed to the public due to ongoing construction, though special permits can be arranged through the Armenian Church authorities.

3. The Church of the Archangels, Armenian Quarter

Located in the Armenian Quarter of the Old City, this medieval church preserves what tradition holds to be part of the house of Annas, where Jesus faced his first interrogation. The Gospel of John uniquely mentions this preliminary questioning, lending the site particular significance pilgrims and tourists.

The church’s architecture reflects multiple building phases, with elements from the Crusader period (12th century) incorporated into later Armenian modifications. The alleged prison cell is a small, vaulted chamber beneath the main church floor. The space retains original stonework and features several Byzantine-era inscriptions. Accessing and interpreting these requires special permission and guidance.

4. The Greek Orthodox Monastery of the Praetorium

The Holy Monastery of the Praetorium, positioned along the Via Dolorosa, represents one of the most atmospheric of the prison sites. This complex claims to preserve part of the Roman fortress where Pontius Pilate judged Jesus (the Praetorium). The underground chambers consist of several interconnected caves, with ancient stone walls bearing traces of different historical periods.

The prison area features authentic Roman-era stonework, including the distinctive flagstone with two holes purportedly used for securing prisoners. The Greek Orthodox Church has maintained this site since the medieval period, gradually developing it into an important pilgrimage destination. The monastery above contains valuable icons and religious artifacts relating to Jesus’ trial and imprisonment.

5. The Prison inside the Church of the Holy Sepulchre

Within Christianity’s most revered church, the Prison of Christ Chapel occupies a significant position in the northern wing. This site, maintained by the Greek Orthodox Church, traditionally marks where Jesus was held immediately before his crucifixion.

The chapel’s current form dates primarily to the Crusader period, though it incorporates earlier Byzantine elements. In 2019 the chapel underwent a restoration project.

The multiple traditional sites of Christ’s imprisonment reflect Jerusalem’s complex religious heritage. While historical certainty may be elusive, each site offers unique archaeological and spiritual significance, contributing to our understanding of both ancient Jerusalem and the development of Christian traditions.

Touring the Prison of Christ Sites

These sites can be effectively visited as part of a Jerusalem day tour. A logical itinerary might begin at Mount Zion (visiting both the Armenian site and Petrus in Gallicantu), then proceed through the Armenian Quarter to the Church of the Archangels, continue along the Via Dolorosa to the Praetorium, and conclude at the Holy Sepulchre. All sites maintain strict dress codes (covered shoulders and knees).