Chapel of the Ascension

City:

Jerusalem

State, Province, Region, or District:

Jerusalem (At-Tur) District

Country:

Israel

Overview

The octagonal Chapel of Ascension marks the highest place on the Mount of Olives and is the traditional site where Jesus ascended to heaven 40 days after His resurrection in the site of His disciples (Luke 24:51). It is also believed to be the place where Jesus will return to earth at His second coming (Acts 1:11).

Inside the chapel is a stone slab with an impression of Jesus' right foot, the last point on earth that was touched by Him before He ascended to heaven. It's believed to have been carved in the stone by one of Jesus' disciples. The Muslims removed the left foot during the Middle Ages, and it is currently located behind the main pulpit in the Al-Aqsa Mosque on the Temple Mount in the Old City of Jerusalem.

Alternate Names

Chapel of the Ascension; Mosque of the Ascension; Church of the Ascension; Dome of the Ascension; Zawiyat al-Adawiya

Geography & Location

The Chapel of the Ascension is a chapel and shrine located on the Mount of Olives, in the At-Tur district of Jerusalem at 2,723 feet (830 meters) above sea level.

Biblical, Historical, & Archaeological Background Information

New Testament (c. 33 AD)

Architecture

The Chapel of the Ascension on the Mount of Olives is an architectural hybrid, blending Crusader-era Romanesque foundations with later Islamic additions. It is most famous for housing the "Ascension Rock," which bears the traditional footprint of Christ.

Biblical & Historical References

In Acts 1:6-12, Jesus ascended into the sky as His disciples watched. While they were intently gazing upward as He departed, two men in white garments appeared beside them. They said, “Men of Galilee, why are you standing here looking at the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken up from you into Heaven, will return in the same way you saw Him go.” In the final chapter of the Bible, Jesus Himself makes a similar promise to those who love Him wholeheartedly. He said, “Yes, I am coming soon” (Revelation 22:20).

Spiritual Lessons and Application

Christ proved to be God in ascending in a glorified body back to heaven. Do we believe Jesus is God?

Etymology

A-Tur – Arabic: “The Mount” (of Olives) – an Arab neighborhood on top of Mount of Olives where the Ascension church is located

Planning a Visit

Disclaimer: The information provided below may not be current. Travel details, entry requirements, and business operations are subject to frequent change due to holidays, seasonal fluctuations, maintenance, staffing levels, weather, and safety considerations. Always double-check with official sources before you go.