Mount of Olives
Yerushalayim
The Mount of Olives is a prominent mountain ridge located east of Jerusalem's Old City, named after the olive groves that once covered its slopes. It has been a vital site for Jewish burial traditions for over 3,000 years, housing approximately 150,000 graves on its western slopes, making it one of the most significant Jewish cemeteries. The mount is also deeply significant in Christian tradition, as several key events in the life of Jesus took place here, including his ascension to heaven, making it a major pilgrimage destination. Geographically, it forms part of a 3.5-kilometer ridge along with Mount Scopus and the Mount of Corruption, featuring three distinct peaks with religious landmarks such as the Russian Orthodox Convent of the Ascension and the Church of the Pater Noster. Historically, it was the site of ancient necropolises linked to the Kingdom of Judah's elite and has witnessed events from the Roman siege of Jerusalem to modern times. Its panoramic views of Jerusalem and the Temple Mount have inspired countless maps and artworks. The Mount of Olives remains a living neighborhood today, blending its rich religious heritage with contemporary life.
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Tip: The best time to visit the Mount of Olives is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the views of Jerusalem are clear. Visitors should consider purchasing tickets or joining guided tours in advance to access key religious sites such as the Church of the Pater Noster and the Chapel of the Ascension. Modest dress is recommended due to the site's religious significance. There are discounts available for groups, students, and seniors at some sites. Early morning or late afternoon visits provide the most dramatic light for photography and a quieter experience before peak pilgrimage crowds arrive.
Interesting facts
- •The Mount of Olives holds approximately 150,000 Jewish graves, making it one of the oldest and most significant Jewish cemeteries in the world.
- •The ridge is geologically composed of Late Cretaceous oceanic sedimentary rock, including soft chalk used for burial caves.
- •Several pivotal events in the life of Jesus, including his ascension, are traditionally believed to have occurred on the Mount of Olives.
- •The mount offers panoramic views of Jerusalem and the Temple Mount, inspiring many ancient maps and artworks of the city.
- •During the Roman siege of Jerusalem in 70 AD, the 10th Legion camped atop the Mount of Olives.
History
The Mount of Olives has been a sacred burial site for Jews since biblical times, with graves dating back over 3,000 years.
It was part of the ancient Kingdom of Judah's elite necropolis and played a role in Second Temple religious ceremonies.
During the Roman siege of Jerusalem in 70 AD, Roman legions camped on the mount.
Over centuries, it evolved as a key site for Jewish lamentation and pilgrimage, especially after the Temple's destruction.
In the medieval period, control shifted following Saladin's conquest.
In modern times, the Mount continues to hold religious and national significance, with prominent figures like Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin choosing to be buried there.
Place Guide
Western Jewish Cemetery
This ancient cemetery on the western slopes of the Mount of Olives contains approximately 150,000 graves, representing over three millennia of Jewish burial tradition. It is considered a sacred site and is central to Jewish eschatological beliefs.
Church of the Pater Noster4th century (original)
Located on the southern peak, this church commemorates the place where Jesus taught the Lord's Prayer (Pater Noster). It features inscriptions of the prayer in multiple languages and is a significant pilgrimage site.
Chapel of the Ascension4th century
Situated on the middle peak's western summit, this chapel marks the traditional site of Jesus' ascension to heaven. It is shared by Christian denominations and features both a chapel and an Islamic maqam nearby.
Russian Orthodox Convent of the Ascension19th century
On the eastern summit of the middle peak, this convent is an important Russian Orthodox pilgrimage site, built near the traditional ascension location of Jesus. It includes a distinctive bell tower and religious icons.
