Alexander's Court, Russian Orthodox church and monastery in Old City, Jerusalem, Israel
Alexander's Court is a church and monastery complex in Old City Jerusalem featuring Byzantine stone architecture combined with Russian Orthodox design elements. The site comprises multiple structures arranged around a central courtyard that serve both religious and residential functions.
The Russian government acquired the land in 1859 and commissioned construction beginning in 1896 under Emperor Alexander III. The project was carried out by the Palestinian-Russian Association to strengthen Russian Orthodox presence in the holy city.
The compound serves Russian Orthodox believers who gather for religious ceremonies and find lodging during their visits to Jerusalem. Visitors notice traditional religious artworks and icon displays that reflect the spiritual life of the community.
The site is open to visitors six days a week with Sunday closures, and entry is gained through a rectangular corridor where tickets are obtained. This arrangement helps manage visitor flow through the space.
Archaeological excavations beneath the site have uncovered ancient remains including the first-century Bab Al-Hukm gate. These discoveries reveal layers of history from different periods hidden under the modern structure.
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