The Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem, located in Rome, Italy, is one of the seven Pilgrim Churches of Rome and is unique for its storied history and significant religious artifacts. Originally, it was founded by St. Helena, the mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great, in the 4th century. According to tradition, St. Helena built this church to house the relics she brought back from Jerusalem after her pilgrimage to the Holy Land. These relics are believed to include pieces of the True Cross, on which Jesus was crucified, hence the name “Holy Cross in Jerusalem.”
The church’s architecture has undergone various transformations over the centuries, incorporating elements from the early Christian, medieval, and Baroque periods, which contribute to its current design and layout. The interior of the basilica is notable for its artistic and architectural features, including beautiful frescoes, mosaics, and other artworks.
One of the most significant aspects of the Basilica of the Holy Cross in Jerusalem is its collection of Passion relics. These include not only fragments of the True Cross but also the INRI inscription said to have been placed above Jesus’ head, one of the nails believed to have been used in the crucifixion, thorns from the Crown of Thorns, and a piece of the Good Thief’s cross.
The basilica is not only a place of worship but also a destination for pilgrims and tourists who come to venerate the relics and explore the rich historical and religious heritage of the site. Its role in Christian tradition and its connection to the Holy Land make it an important symbol of the Christian faith’s history and its roots in Jerusalem.
