Restoration work at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem is approaching its final stage, while archaeologists continue to investigate the ancient layers beneath the historic Christian site.

Specialists from Italy’s Sapienza University briefed Greek Orthodox Patriarch Theophilos III on the progress of the project on September 8. Representatives of the Catholic and Armenian churches, which share responsibility for the preservation of the church, also took part in the meeting.

The restoration began in 2022 with plans to replace the church’s aging floor. Workers have been removing stone slabs in small sections, allowing archaeologists to examine and document the layers underneath before the areas are restored and reinforced.

The project focuses primarily on restoring the floor and the infrastructure and structural elements beneath it. According to the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, more than half of the floor restoration and technical-system replacement had been completed by the end of 2025.

The archaeological work has revealed evidence of a remarkably complex history. Researchers have identified traces of an ancient quarry that predates the church, as well as evidence that parts of the site were later used for burials and agriculture. Roman and early Christian structures, ancient flooring and fourth-century coins have also been found.

Among the most intriguing discoveries are traces of an agricultural area dating back roughly 2,000 years. Soil and plant remains suggest that olive trees and grapevines may have been cultivated there. The finding has attracted particular interest because the Gospel accounts describe the area associated with Jesus’ crucifixion and burial as a garden. Researchers caution, however, that the archaeological evidence helps reconstruct the ancient landscape but does not by itself prove the location of any particular tomb.

Archaeologists have also uncovered elements associated with the earliest history of the church itself, including fragments of a marble floor that formed part of the original decoration around the Holy Sepulchre. Together, the discoveries are helping researchers reconstruct how the site developed from a quarry and agricultural landscape into one of Christianity’s most important sanctuaries.

The excavation presents unusual logistical challenges because the Church of the Holy Sepulchre remains an active place of worship and receives pilgrims every day. Work has therefore been carried out in stages, with some operations taking place around the clock to minimize disruption to visitors.

The findings are being examined by an international team of archaeologists, historians, engineers and conservation specialists. The project has also become an example of cooperation among the Orthodox, Catholic and Armenian communities responsible for the church.

Patriarch Theophilos III stressed that the restoration is necessary not only to strengthen the historic building but also to preserve the Church of the Holy Sepulchre as a monument of global significance. For researchers, the project offers an unusual opportunity to combine conservation with archaeological investigation while the centuries-old sanctuary continues to serve pilgrims and worshippers.