Jerusalem — After five years of painstaking restoration, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, one of Christianity’s most sacred sites, has been unveiled in its restored glory. The project involved teams of architects, archaeologists, and historians working to preserve the ancient structure while enhancing safety for its millions of annual visitors.
The church, which houses the site traditionally believed to be where Jesus was crucified and buried, underwent extensive work to stabilize its foundations, repair structural damage, and restore faded frescoes. Workers also uncovered hidden chambers and inscriptions, some of which date back to the 4th century when Emperor Constantine first commissioned the church.
“This restoration ensures that future generations can continue to experience the spiritual significance of this sacred place,” said Archbishop Theophilos III, one of the church’s custodians.
The project also included the installation of modern amenities, such as improved lighting and ventilation systems, to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims. The unveiling ceremony was attended by religious leaders from around the world, who joined in a prayer of thanksgiving for the preservation of this holy site.