Holy sites

The Latest

A Greek Orthodox monk pours oil into the lamps in front of the edicule of the Holy Sepulcher, which contains the venerated tomb. The three communities responsible for the Holy Sepulcher are the Greek Orthodox, the Latin Catholic, and the Armenian. Every movement and schedule inside the basilica is governed by the Status Quo.

PHOTOS: Archaeologists uncover early use of site beneath Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem

Apr 18, 2025

By Marinella Bandini

Archaeological excavations launched in 2022 in the Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem have yielded significant data on the... Read more

Father Francesco Patton, custos of the Holy Land, stops at the Eighth Station of the Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem during the Good Friday Via Crucis on March 29, 2024.

PHOTOS: Challenges and triumphs: The custos of the Holy Land reflects on 9 years

Jan 28, 2025

By Marinella Bandini

As he gets ready to retire, Father Francesco Patton talks to CNA about his years leading the Custody of the... Read more