Church of the Holy Sepulcher, Jerusalem

This is neither St. Peter's in Rome, nor Notre Dame in Paris; this is all about the feeling! From the very first step in the courtyard, it hits you and hits you hard, the music, the incense, the prayers being cried out in multiple languages, the expressions on the pilgrim’s faces. The mood is very reverent, this is where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected. Even if you don't believe, one can't deny the feeling, unlike any other place in the world. It gets packed quickly so try to go first thing in the morning. As with most sites in Jerusalem, dress respectfully, cover your shoulders, pants or full length skirts, absolutely no cleavage, I saw one woman who was asked to leave! It's free, doesn't cost a dime to get it, if you want to light a candle, the local priest expects and offering. I recommend walking the Via Dolorosa first; no trip to Jerusalem would be complete without it.

We arrived for the 3pm Stations of the Cross, with the thousands of faithful, tourists and faithful tourists! With music, bells, incense and chanting of the different traditions like a huge living organism It's confusing, a bit tense (our group got shouted at by a grumpy nun) and exciting, the focus of devotion for so many varied beautiful traditions. Then I went back at dawn the following day and went to the empty tomb when it was quiet and full of mystery. It's pointless to question what's fact and what's myth - the place has ingested the prayers and aspirations and broken hearts of millions - a truly wonderful, messy holy chaos. Fantastic.

I advise every traveller to visit teh church of the Holy Sepluchre early morning - long before the tourist reach it - thn you can feel the holiness in the place During the day I wish that Authorities could do something aboutthe Tourist guides climbing on every bench or explaining things with loud voice - it is a place to worship at and reflectand not to gudie at. The Greek Orthodox priest at the tomb is very impatient and agressive but don't let this distract you A free advide when visiting teh church FEEL IT AND NOT ONLY TO SEE IT A MUSTFOR EVERY CHRISTIAN AGNIESZKA DANHO

A must see for the pilgrim and visitor to Jersusalem. REmove yourself from the hustle of the city and enter into a place of holiness. Leave time for thought, contemplation and prayer.

It's hard to believe the claims of this place. It is a very old and very ornate church. I didn't find it a spiritual experience.