Stella Maris Monastery
HaTsafon
Stella Maris Monastery, located on Mount Carmel in Israel, is a significant Carmelite church known for its striking white marble interior and richly decorated dome painted by Luigi Poggi between 1924 and 1928. The dome illustrates biblical episodes, notably the Prophet Elijah ascending to Heaven in a chariot of fire. Central to the church is a statue of the Virgin Mary atop a cedar of Lebanon pedestal, deeply venerated by local Christians. Beneath the main altar lies Elijah's cave, where according to the Old Testament, the prophet lived; inside the cave is a rock-carved altar with a small statue of Elijah. The monastery honors four Carmelite saints with embossments on its pilasters: St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross, St. Edith Stein, and St. Mariam Bouardy. Visitors can also explore a permanent Nativity Scene and artifacts from the ancient Byzantine church that once stood on this site. Outside, a pyramid memorial commemorates French soldiers who died after Napoleon’s retreat in 1799, and across the road stands a statue of the Immaculate Conception, a monument erected by the Chilean people honoring their patroness. The church welcomes visitors daily with morning and afternoon opening hours.
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Tip: Visit Stella Maris Monastery early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere. Purchasing religious articles and scapulars is possible at the small souvenir shop onsite. No specific ticketing is required, but respectful attire and quiet conduct are recommended. Check opening hours before planning your visit, as the church is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Interesting facts
- •The dome frescoes were painted by Maltese Carmelite Luigi Poggi between 1924 and 1928.
- •The cave beneath the altar is traditionally considered the dwelling place of Prophet Elijah according to the Old Testament.
- •The pyramid memorial outside the church honors French soldiers who died following Napoleon’s retreat in 1799.
- •Four Carmelite saints are honored with embossments inside the basilica: St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross, St. Edith Stein, and St. Mariam Bouardy.
- •A statue of the Immaculate Conception across the road was erected by the Chilean people to honor their patroness.
History
The Stella Maris Monastery is built on the site of an ancient Byzantine church and has long been associated with the Prophet Elijah, who is believed to have lived in the cave beneath the altar.
The current church features a dome painted by Luigi Poggi between 1924 and 1928.
The site also commemorates French soldiers who died after Napoleon’s retreat in 1799, reflecting its layered historical significance over centuries.
Place Guide
Main Altar and Elijah’s Cave
The main altar features a statue of the Virgin Mary standing on a cedar of Lebanon pedestal. Beneath it lies Elijah’s cave, a rock-hewn chamber with a small statue of the prophet, believed to be his dwelling place.
Dome Frescoes1924-1928
The dome is adorned with biblical scenes painted by Luigi Poggi, including the notable depiction of Prophet Elijah ascending to Heaven in a chariot of fire.
Carmelite Saints Embossments
Pilaster strips in the basilica feature embossments dedicated to four Carmelite saints: St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross, St. Edith Stein, and St. Mariam Bouardy.
Permanent Nativity Scene and Byzantine Artifacts
Located in the room to the right of the entryway, this display includes a permanent Nativity Scene and artifacts from the ancient Byzantine church that once stood here.
Pyramid Memorial to French Soldiers1799
Outside the church entrance stands a pyramid memorial commemorating French soldiers who died after Napoleon’s retreat in 1799, inscribed with a biblical lamentation.
Statue of the Immaculate Conception
Across the road from the church, a pillar supports a statue of the Immaculate Conception, erected by the Chilean people to honor their nation's patroness.
Contact
Phone: 04-833-7758
