>> this is something that is one of the most powerful and remarkable things about the tradition. is that you can actually go to the place where things happened. >> reporter: we've come to the old city with professor paula frederickson in search of the historical jesus. >> i think the historical jesus has always mattered to christianity or we wouldn't have the gospels. those were stories about jesus the man. >> reporter: along the area, agony and physical strain for jesus of naz rhett during the march to crucifixion. on his final journey, he faltered carrying the cross. placing his hand on this stone for simon helps to bear the burden. visiting methods from a church in st. louis, find a visit to the place makes for deeper spiritual meaning. >> i think scripture goes from black to white and technicolor when you come here.