Discover the Serenity of St. George Monastery
Explore the ancient St. George Monastery in the Judean Desert, a serene blend of spirituality and breathtaking natural beauty.
A brief summary to St. George Monastery
St. George Monastery, an architectural gem carved into the cliffs of the Judean Desert, beckons travelers with its tranquil beauty and historical significance. Founded in the 5th century, this Greek Orthodox monastery is not only a place of worship but also a remarkable representation of ancient monastic life. Visitors are greeted by stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape, with the monastery seemingly suspended between the earth and sky. The journey to the monastery often involves a scenic drive along the Jerusalem-Dead Sea road, where the dramatic topography sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. Upon arrival, tourists can marvel at the intricate frescoes and religious artifacts that adorn the monastery's walls, providing insight into the spiritual practices of the monks who have called this place home for centuries. The peaceful atmosphere encourages reflection, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a moment of solitude or spiritual connection. Guided tours are available, offering deeper knowledge about the monastery's history and its role in the Christian faith. While visiting St. George Monastery, don't forget to explore the nearby hiking trails that lead to additional viewpoints and hidden gems in the desert. The combination of rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural settings makes St. George Monastery a highlight on any travel itinerary in the region, appealing to both history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for the hike to the monastery, as the terrain can be uneven.
- Arrive early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility before other visitors arrive.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the desert landscape.
- Respect the religious nature of the site by dressing modestly.
- Check the opening hours in advance, as they may vary seasonally.
Getting There
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Bus
From the city center of Jerusalem, walk to the Central Bus Station (Tachana Merkazit). Take bus number 21 towards Ma'ale Adumim. Stay on the bus for about 30 minutes, and get off at the stop for 'St. George Monastery.' From the bus stop, follow the signs to the monastery which is about a 10-minute walk downhill.
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Light Rail
Start at any light rail station in Jerusalem and take the light rail towards the 'Mount Herzl' station. Get off at the 'City Hall' station. From there, walk to the Central Bus Station (around 10 minutes). At the Central Bus Station, take bus number 21 towards Ma'ale Adumim. After approximately 30 minutes, disembark at the stop for 'St. George Monastery.' It is a short 10-minute walk downhill to reach the monastery.
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Walking and Public Transport Combination
If you are near the Old City, start by walking to Jaffa Gate. From Jaffa Gate, take bus number 99 from the nearby bus stop, which goes to the Central Bus Station. After arriving at the Central Bus Station, board bus number 21 towards Ma'ale Adumim. After about 30 minutes, get off at the stop for 'St. George Monastery.' The monastery is about a 10-minute walk downhill from the bus stop.
Attractions Nearby to St. George Monastery
- Zaccheo's house
- Zacchaeus convent for Coptic orthodox
- Zacchaeus and the apostle Andrew convent for the Coptic orthodox
- Deir al Krntl (monastery Krntl)
- Mount of Temptation
- Elisha Spring Fountain
- Mosaic Centre Jericho مركز الفسيفساء أريحا
- Jericho Cable Car
- Temptation Tourist Center, AbuRaed, Tel Jericho, Tel Es Sultan, Jericho Old City Since 1979
- Ancient Jericho/ Tell es-Sultan
- Jeriko-tårnet
- Ein El Sultan Spring
- Jericho panorama
- Sykomora Zacheusza
- Museum of the Good Samaritan
Landmarks nearby to St. George Monastery
- Zuhur al Balqa'
- גלריה מינוס 430
- Qumran National Park
- Qasr el Yahud
- Kalia Beach
- Bethany beyond the Jordan
- The Baptismal Site of Jesus Christ
- Horkanya
- Baptism souvenir shop
- Entrance to The Authentic Baptism Site of Jesus Christ - Visitor Center
- HaMasu'ot Lookout
- Mt Scopus
- Mar Saba Monastery
- Church of Viri Galilaei
- Flag of Israel