The Ecce Homo Arch in the Via Dolorosa

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Above the street is the Ecce Homo Arch (“Behold the man” in Latin). According to the New Testament, these were the words uttered by the Roman procurator when he presented Jesus to the people before being sentenced.

The arch was built in the 2nd century CE during the time of Emperor Hadrian, as the entrance gate leading into the Roman Forum (the public square). On either side were two smaller arches: The northernmost small arch was integrated into the Ecce Homo Basilica.

The Ecce Homo Arch in the Via Dolorosa

Also located nearby is the Convent of the Sisters of Zion, where ancient ruins were found beneath its foundations. There  is an archaeological site here with diagrams and finds from the excavations (entrance is from the Street of the Nuns; there is an entrance fee).

Farther along the street and to the right we can go up and view the side arch. Also on the street is the Greek Orthodox Praetorium (the Prison of Christ).