David Harris

Sacred ground. The Dominican complex in Jerusalem has been home to several churches over the centuries. Above, framed by arches, is the modern basilica of St. Stephen, which was built in the late 1800s following excavations at the site. It sits atop the ruins of a Byzantine church built by Empress Eudoxia in the fifth century. The basilica has the same general size and shape as its predecessor and incorporates mosaic floor fragments and other remains from the earlier structure. In addition, a Crusader church was located nearby. Might an Egyptian temple have preceded them all?