GARDEN TOMB

The grounds of the Garden Tomb are about one block from the city walls, near Damascus Gate.  

In 1894 a British General named Gordon visited this spot and had a strange feeling about it that he couldn't shake. Later he dreamed that this was the site where Jesus was buried and, according to Christian tradition, rose from the dead. He believed that the little hill nearby was Golgotha, the "Hill of the Skull," where Jesus was crucified.  Christians had believed for centuries that the Church of the Holy Sepulcher was the spot of both Golgotha and Jesus' tomb, but Gordon was convinced he had found the actual site.

He began raising money and established the Garden Tomb Association in London, which bought the land and still cares for the grounds. Sunday Services are still held here. Visitors can explore the tomb and see the garden which may have belonged to Joseph of Arimathea, who let Jesus be buried on his property.

Near the garden tomb is a hill which -- especially when the sun hits it a certain way -- can resemble a skull.

Go back