Church of All Nations, Minor basilica in Gethsemane, Israel
The Church of All Nations is a Catholic minor basilica in Gethsemane at the foot of the Mount of Olives. Its roof features twelve shallow domes, and the alabaster windows tint incoming daylight in shades of violet and blue.
A Byzantine church was built here in the fourth century, then destroyed in an earthquake. Crusaders raised a chapel in the 12th century, which later fell into ruins and was rediscovered in the 19th century.
Stained glass windows create a soft blue and purple glow inside, where visitors often pause in silence near the rock traditionally associated with the prayer before arrest. Pilgrims from around the world leave written prayers on paper slips tucked into crevices along the stone walls.
The basilica opens in the morning and reopens in the afternoon, with shorter hours in winter. Mass is held regularly, and visitors should dress modestly and remain quiet during services.
Glass panels in the floor protect sections of a Byzantine mosaic from the fourth century. The alabaster windows reduce incoming light so much that the interior feels dim even at midday.
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