Jerusalem - St. Mark's Church

Click on photo to enlarge it

There is a church that is often overlooked by pilgrims to Jerusalem - St. Mark's Church. Some of it can be its location. It is not on the beaten path, and is found in the Armenian Quarter, on Ararat Street, which branches off St Mark’s Street.

The church is steeped in tradition, including its claim to be the site of The Last Supper and the Upper Room. It also claims to be built on Mary's house - Mary the mother of John Mark. According to the gospel account, Peter went to this house after being released from a prison cell by an angel (Acts 12:12). 

There is a 6th century inscription hanging on a wall in the sanctuary, which reads in part: “this is the house of Mary mother of John Mark.” Another interesting tradition (disputed by scholars), is a portrait of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, also hanging on a wall in the church. It is said to have been painted by Luke. 

Click on photo to enlarge it