Study Day: Church Lands in Jerusalem and Their Impact – Tour Guide Training 6388

About the study day We will uncover the historical and geopolitical struggle over the lands of Jerusalem, from the real-estate "arms race" of the powers in the 19th century to the complex issues of today. Through the case studies of the "Russian Compound" and the challenges of architectural preservation, we will understand how the churches shape the physical and political landscape of the city in the 21st century as well. 09:15–10:45 Between the sacred and the secular: a historical journey in the footsteps of church lands From the beginnings of Christianity, and especially after the spread of Islam, a physical presence in the Holy Land became a goal in itself: religious institutions, public institutions, pilgrim hostels and more; the race for acquisitions peaked after the capitulation agreements in the mid-19th century, but the legal and geopolitical effects are still felt to this day. Lecturer: Adv. Avi Baldi 11:00–12:30 The lands and properties of the Russians in the Land of Israel In the late 19th century the Russian Empire acquired extensive lands and properties in the Holy Land. Through the changes of rule – from the Ottoman period, through the British Mandate and up to the present under the sovereignty of Jordan and Israel – these properties underwent major statutory and political changes. Religious, ideological and geopolitical forces shaped the fate of the "Russian properties" and made them the focus of a fascinating legal and diplomatic issue.