The Roman Catholic (Latin) church has around a billion believers worldwide. It separated from the Orthodox Church in 1054, and the meaning of its name is “inclusive” or “universal”. The crusaders, who were Catholic, came from Europe to Jerusalem in 1099, and usurped the place of the local eastern Christians. In the 12th century, the Muslims returned to Jerusalem and the Latin Patriarchate went to exile in Europe. They returned to Jerusalem much later in 1847. 100 Catholic orders operate in Jerusalem.
The Catholic Church has rights and a representation in the places that are sacred for Christians, as well as many assets. Today’s Latin patriarch in Jerusalem is of Arab origins, as are most of the members in his community. On the roof of the Patriarchate stands the yellow-white Vatican flag. The flag depicts the keys to the kingdoms of the sky and the earth, handed by Jesus to his apostle Peter, who is considered the first pope. It is possible to enter the compound and visit the magnificent cathedral. In the internal courtyard there are signs that note the hosting and management of papal visitations who visited Jerusalem.
