I Priests

View looking east at Franciscan Fathers in a courtyard of the Umariyya Boys School that are leading pilgrims in prayers and song as they begin their procession along the “Stations of the Cross.”

The Umariyya Boys School is built over the site of the Antonia Fortress that towered over the northwest corner of the Temple Mount.  According to some traditions this is the place where Jesus was persecuted by Roman soldiers and condemned to death by Pilate.  BUT, it is more probable that the condemnation of Jesus took place at Herod the Great’s Palace where Pilate probably resided when he visited Jerusalem—it was located near Jaffa Gate.

Because of this tradition, this site is the beginning of the Via Dolorosa.

For a view of the interior of the school Click Here.

For an important description and commentary on the significance of the Via Dolorosa Click Here.