The oldest traditional site of Ascension venerated by Christians (where Jesus ascended to heaven 40 days after resurrection-Luke 24: 50-51; Acts 1:9-12) is now under Muslim control. The first church (round-shaped) was built here around 390 AD by Poimenia (a pious Roman lady) or by St: Helena (Emperor Constantine's mother). The Church was destroyed by Persians in 614 AD, however it was soon restored by Modestus. The 7th Century pilgrim, Arculf describes a grand church existing on this site with its edicule containing the footprints of Christ.
Later, Crusaders rebuilt the church (octagon shaped) and fortified its exterior (1150). In 1198, Islamic ruler Saladin converted the church into a mosque by adding a mihrab (Muslim prayer niche) and a dome. In 1620, another mosque, Zawiyat al-Adawiyya (in memory of Rabia al-Adawiyya, whose Tomb is located nearby) was added near the Church. Today, the whole complex is under Muslim control and Armenians celebrate the Ascension festival once in a year (40 days after Easter) in this site.
Later, Crusaders rebuilt the church (octagon shaped) and fortified its exterior (1150). In 1198, Islamic ruler Saladin converted the church into a mosque by adding a mihrab (Muslim prayer niche) and a dome. In 1620, another mosque, Zawiyat al-Adawiyya (in memory of Rabia al-Adawiyya, whose Tomb is located nearby) was added near the Church. Today, the whole complex is under Muslim control and Armenians celebrate the Ascension festival once in a year (40 days after Easter) in this site.
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