Church Holy Sepulchre people touching stone 1

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is one of the oldest churches in the world, dating back to the early Fourth century. The church has changed often in the last 17 centuries. Five orthodox denominations hold services in the church, and pilgrims from around the world file through the ancient structure every day. What is nearly impossible to see is that the church covers an old rock quarry that was in active use during the lifetime of Jesus. As rocks were removed from the quarry, one place apparently reminded people of a skull, giving it the name “Golgotha.” The word “sepulcher” means “tomb.” The actual tomb of Christ was said to be removed by one of the Roman emperors. The structure inside the church is said to have been built over the location where the tomb once stood.