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Monastery of the Cross Jerusalem

4.6
·585 reviews·Jerusalem, Israel

An ancient Eastern Orthodox monastery in Jerusalem, famed for its legendary origins and serene atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Вид на монастырь

Monastery of the Cross Jerusalem

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An ancient Eastern Orthodox monastery in Jerusalem, famed for its legendary origins and serene atmosphere.

4.6
(585 reviews)

"A hidden gem offering a peaceful escape and a deep dive into Jerusalem's spiritual history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk from Israel Museum

It's a short, scenic walk from the Israel Museum. Easy to combine visits! :athletic_shoe:

🤫 Quiet Reflection

Embrace the tranquility. It's a place for quiet contemplation, not loud tours. :pray:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ancient Monastery Structure

The Ancient Monastery Structure

Main Church

Explore the 11th-century architecture, a testament to centuries of history and faith.

The Legend of the Holy Tree

The Legend of the Holy Tree

Courtyard

Discover the tradition of the tree from which Christ's cross was made, a central part of its lore.

Museum and Library Collections

Museum and Library Collections

Interior Galleries

View ancient manuscripts, religious artifacts, and historical exhibits that tell the monastery's story.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Monastery of the Cross

Visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more serene experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the ancient architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Check opening hours as they can vary.

Dress Code & Respectful Visits

As a religious site, modest dress is required. Shoulders and knees should be covered. This ensures respect for the sacred nature of the Monastery of the Cross and its ongoing religious services.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Good light for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

MUSLIM HAS KEYS TO A CHURCH? This is the story of how a Muslim Family has the keys to the Holy Church of Sepulchre in Jerusalem - which is Christianity’s holiest site. It is where they believe Isa (as) - Jesus, was buried. The church is made up of different denominations of orthodox Christianity, such as Armenian, Greek, Russian, Syrian and Ethiopian - whom don’t always get along and agree. This ...
@muslimhandsuk
91.5K likes • 2.2M views

🚶‍♀️ Walk from Israel Museum

It's a short, scenic walk from the Israel Museum. Easy to combine visits! :athletic_shoe:

🤫 Quiet Reflection

Embrace the tranquility. It's a place for quiet contemplation, not loud tours. :pray:

I couldn’t believe my eyes. #fyp #jerusalem #jesus #HolyLand #history #Christianity #churchoftheholysepulcher
@michael.pettit
76.7K likes • 1.8M views
A short clip from our visit to the Monastery of the Cross in Jerusalem
mati_shoshani
68 likes • 1.8K views

🧥 Modest Attire Required

Cover shoulders and knees. Essential for respecting this holy site. :dress:

📸 Photography Etiquette

Be mindful when taking photos, especially during services. Ask permission if unsure. :camerawithflash:

Check out the amazing Monastery of the Cross in Jerusalem! #israel #jerusalem #bible #faith #christian #jesus #cross #christianity #greek #georgia #georgia🇬🇪 #tbilisi #shota #cats #learning #history #tradition
itamar_israel_vip_tour_guide
9 likes • 377 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk from Israel Museum

It's a short, scenic walk from the Israel Museum. Easy to combine visits! :athletic_shoe:

🤫 Quiet Reflection

Embrace the tranquility. It's a place for quiet contemplation, not loud tours. :pray:

🧥 Modest Attire Required

Cover shoulders and knees. Essential for respecting this holy site. :dress:

📸 Photography Etiquette

Be mindful when taking photos, especially during services. Ask permission if unsure. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(585 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Monastery of the Cross for its historical significance, serene atmosphere, and unique legends. Many appreciate its accessibility and the opportunity to explore ancient architecture and religious art. Some note that it can be less crowded than other major Jerusalem sites, offering a more peaceful experience.

"This is my beloved monastery in the Holy land. It is located on the northern downhill, thus, it is not so hot there even in summer. When you enter the monastery and several minutes walk inside through beautiful small paths among fine plants and trees you start feeling as if you are in the paradise."

Alex Drukpa.

"A Greek-Orthodox monastery, built as a fortress, located in the Rehaviah valley (Cross valley). According to tradition it is the site of the tree that was used to build the cross of the crucifixion.    The monastery was initially built in the Byzantine period, during the  5th C AD. It was repaired by Caesar Justinian in the mid 6th C.  The Monastery was destroyed during the Persian invasion (614AD). In 796 the Arabs butchered all the residing monks.
It was rebuilt in the 11th C by a Georgian Monk, and enjoyed better times during the times of the Crusaders. The site was a large center in the 13-14th C, and hosted a hundreds of Georgian monks, scholars and poets.
At the end of the 17th C the Monastery changed control from the Georgians to the Greek-Orthodox church. The number of residents has decreased over the years to a few. The Monastery is open to the public and is kept by a few resident monks. It is a popular visiting site for the Christian pilgrims who visit Jerusalem."

Bose AT

"The Monastery of the Cross (Georgian: ჯვრის მონასტერი) is an Orthodox monastery in Jerusalem, Israel. It is located in the Valley of the Cross.
The monastery was built in the 11th century, during the reign of King Bagrat IV by the Georgian Giorgi-Prokhore of Shavsheti. It is believed that the site was originally consecrated in the 4th century under the instruction of the Roman emperor Constantine the Great, who later gave the site to the Georgian King Mirian III of Iberia after the conversion of his country to Christianity in 327 A.D.
By the 14th century, the monastery had become the center of the Georgian community in Jerusalem. By 1685, however, the monastery had been taken over by the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate."

shalva1948

What People Like

Rich history and legends
Peaceful atmosphere
Ancient architecture

What People Dislike

Limited signage
Can be quiet

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Monastery of the Cross is conveniently located in Jerusalem, near the Israel Museum. Many visitors find it easy to reach by bus or taxi. If you're coming from the city center, routes like the 12 or 24 bus can get you close. Some travelers also enjoy a pleasant walk from the Israel Museum, which is just a short distance away. Instagram

Yes, there is typically parking available near the Monastery of the Cross, especially if you are arriving by car. It's advisable to check for any specific parking restrictions or fees, particularly during peak tourist seasons.

While it's a bit of a walk from the absolute city center, it's very accessible from nearby landmarks like the Israel Museum. The walk itself can be quite pleasant, offering views of the surrounding area. Instagram

For a day trip, combining a visit to the Monastery of the Cross with the nearby Israel Museum is highly recommended. You can use public transport or a taxi to reach the area, making it an efficient use of your time.

Public bus routes such as the 12 or 24 often stop near the Monastery of the Cross. For those driving, navigating via GPS to the 'Monastery of the Cross, Jerusalem' will guide you directly to its location.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, entry to the Monastery of the Cross is free, making it an accessible attraction. However, donations are always appreciated to help with the upkeep of this historic site. Instagram

The opening hours can vary, so it's best to check in advance. Typically, it's open during daylight hours on weekdays, but it's wise to confirm, especially around holidays or religious observances. Instagram

While the monastery grounds are usually free to enter, there might be a small fee or donation requested for access to specific museum exhibits or guided tours. It's recommended to inquire upon arrival.

Visiting on weekdays is generally recommended to avoid larger crowds. While it may be open on weekends, it can be busier with local visitors and pilgrims. Instagram

Yes, guided tours are often available, sometimes led by monks or local guides. These tours can offer deeper insights into the history and significance of the monastery. Inquiring at the entrance or beforehand is advisable. Instagram

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Visitors can explore the ancient church architecture, admire religious frescoes, visit the museum showcasing historical artifacts, and learn about the legend of the tree from which Christ's cross was made. The peaceful courtyard is also a highlight. Instagram+1

The Monastery of the Cross can be a fascinating place for children to learn about history and religion. However, due to its sacred nature, it's important to ensure they are respectful and quiet during the visit. Instagram

It's one of Jerusalem's oldest continuously inhabited Christian sites, believed to be built on the spot where the tree grew from which Jesus's cross was made. It holds deep historical and religious importance for various Christian denominations. Instagram+1

As an active religious site, services and special events may occur. If you're interested in attending, it's best to check the monastery's schedule or inquire locally. Instagram

Modest attire is required. This means covering your shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious nature of the site. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted in most areas of the Monastery of the Cross, but it's always respectful to be mindful of ongoing services or private areas. Avoid flash photography, especially near frescoes or artifacts. Instagram

The courtyard with its ancient trees and architecture, the interior of the church with its frescoes, and the museum exhibits offer great photographic opportunities. The exterior views are also quite picturesque. Instagram

While generally allowed, some specific areas or artifacts might have restrictions. Always look for signage or ask a custodian if you are unsure about photographing a particular spot. Instagram

A versatile camera with good low-light performance is ideal for the interior shots. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the architecture, while a standard zoom is good for details. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in and around religious sites and urban areas in Jerusalem due to security and privacy regulations. It's highly unlikely to be permitted. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Monastery of the Cross offers a unique educational opportunity for families. While it's a place of worship, the stories and history can captivate young minds. Focus on the legend of the tree that grew the cross, which can be a fascinating tale for children. Instagram

Encourage respectful behavior by explaining the importance of quiet and reverence in a religious site. The architecture and ancient artifacts in the museum can also spark curiosity. Consider combining the visit with the nearby Israel Museum for a broader cultural experience. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Pilgrims

For solo travelers and pilgrims, the Monastery of the Cross offers a profound sense of peace and historical connection. Its relatively quiet atmosphere, especially on weekdays, allows for deep reflection and personal contemplation. Instagram

Take your time to absorb the ancient ambiance, study the frescoes, and learn about the monastery's legendary origins. It's an ideal spot to connect with the spiritual heritage of Jerusalem away from the more crowded tourist hubs. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Rich History of the Monastery of the Cross

The Monastery of the Cross in Jerusalem is a site steeped in history, with origins tracing back to the Byzantine period. While its foundations are ancient, the current structure largely dates from the 11th century. It's believed to be built on the legendary spot where the tree grew from which Jesus Christ's cross was fashioned. This makes it a significant pilgrimage destination for Christians worldwide. Instagram+1

Historically, the monastery was a prominent Georgian Orthodox center. However, for the past 400 years, it has been under the custodianship of the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate. This long history has seen it endure various periods of construction, destruction, and restoration, each layer adding to its unique character and significance. Instagram

Today, the monastery serves as both a place of worship and a museum, preserving ancient frescoes, religious artifacts, and manuscripts. Its location in the Valley of the Cross, near the Israel Museum, makes it an accessible yet serene escape from the bustling city. Instagram

Exploring the Monastery's Legends and Traditions

One of the most compelling aspects of the Monastery of the Cross is its rich tapestry of legends and traditions. The central narrative revolves around the Tree of Knowledge, from which the wood for Christ's cross was supposedly sourced. According to tradition, three angels visited Abraham and gave him three branches – pine, cypress, and cedar – which were planted and grew into a single tree. Instagram

This sacred tree is said to have been the origin of the wood for the Holy Cross, a story that imbues the monastery with profound spiritual significance. Visitors can learn about this legend through the monastery's art, architecture, and the stories shared by its custodians. The very name, 'Monastery of the Cross,' directly references this foundational tale. Instagram+1

Beyond the central legend, the monastery has been a site of continuous prayer and devotion for centuries, attracting pilgrims and scholars alike. Its enduring presence in Jerusalem is a testament to its spiritual importance and the deep-rooted faith it represents. Instagram

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