The Jerusalem Cross: A Symbol of Faith, History, and Design

The Jerusalem Cross is one of Christianity’s most revered symbols, rich in history and deep in spiritual meaning. Distinct designs and a profound connection to Jerusalem, this symbol has transcended centuries, resonating with Christians around the world. In Crafts City shop, we cherish the history, design, and aesthetics of this Christian emblem. 

The Stroy of the Jerusalem Cross

The Jerusalem Cross was first used as a coat of arms in 1099 by the crusader Godfrey of Bouillon, who had been Duke of Lower Lorraine since 1089. The duchy at that time included the northern Rhineland and large parts of the present-day Netherlands, with the exception of the County of Flanders, present-day Belgium and part of northeastern France. Godfrey of Bouillon was one of the leaders of the First Crusade and founded the Kingdom of Jerusalem. As its regent he bore the title of Protector of the Holy Sepulchre (he did not yet bear the title of king). He made the coat of arms of the Duchy of Bouillon, the Belgian crutch cross with four additional Greek crosses, the symbol and state coat of arms of the Kingdom of Jerusalem. There it was used in gold on silver until 1291.

In the 14th century, the cross in red became the flag of Georgia under King George V the Radiant until the 15th century. The mostly noble pilgrims to Jerusalem, who were knighted at the Holy Sepulchre as Knights of the Order of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, also chose it as their emblem in the 14th century, similar to the Canons of the Holy Sepulchre.

In the 19th century, the Jerusalem Cross (in its original golden form) became the symbol of the Wingolf League. In 1898, after his trip to Palestine, Emperor Wilhelm II founded an order called the Jerusalem Cross. In the Weimar Republic, the Protestant Church in Germany adopted the Jerusalem Cross as its church flag (in reference to the Wingolf), because many communities refused to fly the republican black, red and gold flag. Today, the Jerusalem Cross is used as the logo of the German Evangelical Church Congress and the German Association of the Holy Land. Since January 2004, a red Jerusalem Cross has again been the flag of Georgia.

The Unique Design of Jerusalem Cross

In its so-called Jerusalem version, it is composed of a large Greek cross flanked by four small crosses, also Greek, symbol of the four Gospels or the four directions in which the word of Christ spread from Jerusalem. According to tradition, the coat of arms of Jerusalem (silver, with a gold cross potent, quartered by four crosslets of the same) deliberately contravenes heraldic rules, to better mark the very particular prestige of this city. Indeed, heraldic science forbids the superposition of two metals. In this case, the gold crosses are superimposed on the silver background.

Celebrate Your Faith with a Jerusalem Cross

For those who wish to carry a piece of this rich Christian heritage, there is no better way than with a beautifully crafted Jerusalem Cross. Hand-carved from olive wood, these crosses embody the spirit of the Holy Land and make perfect gifts for those looking to celebrate their faith. Whether you're looking for a decorative piece for your home, a meaningful gift, or a personal symbol of devotion, a Jerusalem Cross serves as a timeless reminder of Christ’s love and sacrifice.

Celebrate your faith and history with a Jerusalem Cross today and experience the deep spiritual connection it brings.