Nestled deep within the grounds of the Monastery of the Ascension, the Refectory stands as one of the most significant structures in the complex. Positioned on the edge of the Judean Desert, this building is a tranquil sanctuary, a peaceful escape where visitors can often find the nuns, especially when the churches are closed. They serve as caretakers and guides, offering assistance and unlocking access to the monastery’s other sacred sites. Open daily except Sundays, the monastery welcomes pilgrims and visitors, with up-to-date visiting hours available on its official website.
The Mount of Olives, with its three peaks, holds an especially revered place in the Christian faith. The central summit, in particular, is steeped in tradition, tied to key moments in Jesus Christ's earthly life and ascension. This ridge, mentioned numerous times in the Bible, is not just a geographical location, but a place of profound historical significance that bridges the sacred narratives of the Old and New Testaments.
In the Old Testament, the Mount of Olives emerges as the scene of King David’s flight from Jerusalem and his prayer upon its summit (2 Samuel 15:23-30). It is also the prophesied setting for the end of days (Zechariah 14; Ezekiel 11). In the New Testament, the mount takes on an even more central role. All four evangelists recount pivotal moments linked to this sacred place, weaving a narrative that connects the Past, Present, and future of Christianity. It was here, too, that He predicted Peter’s denial after the Last Supper (Matthew 26; Mark 14), promised a reunion with His followers in Galilee after His Resurrection, and, finally, ascended to heaven, as described in the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 1:12).
The Mount of Olives holds a unique place in the sacred geography of the Bible, bridging the spiritual worlds of prophecy, faith, and fulfilment. Its holy sites resonate deeply with the history of Christianity, standing as enduring testaments to its profound legacy.
The Mount of Olives, also known as Olivet, is not just a geographical landmark but a place of profound spiritual significance in the history of Christianity. This iconic ridge, serving as a natural border between Jerusalem and the Judean Desert, has been a witness to pivotal events in the Christian tradition. It was here that Jesus Christ entered Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, prayed at the foot of the mountain in the Garden of Gethsemane, and ascended into heaven from its summit.
Our pilgrimage unfolds as we set out from the Monastery of the Ascension, a historic site perched atop the Mount of Olives. This site, with its Chapel of John the Baptist marking the miraculous second discovery of John the Baptist's head, sets the tone for our journey. We then continue to the Monastery of the Second Coming, a place steeped in the stories of John and Anastasia of Olivet, adding depth to our pilgrimage experience.
Next on our route is the Chapel of the Ascension, also known as the Dome of the Ascension or Imprint Chapel. Here, a stone bears what is believed to be Christ's footprint, left as He ascended into heaven. Nearby, we’ll pause to admire one of the most breathtaking panoramas of Jerusalem before descending towards the Garden of Gethsemane. While this path can be walked, we’ll traverse it by car as planned.
The Garden of Gethsemane awaits, home to ancient olive trees and the Church of All Nations, also known as the Church of the Agony. This solemn and sacred space commemorates Christ’s prayer and suffering on the night of His betrayal. We’ll then ascend to the Church of Mary Magdalene, a striking symbol of Russian Jerusalem with its golden onion domes glinting in the sun.
Our final stop is the Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, where the revered Jerusalem Icon of the Mother of God is housed. This marks the conclusion of our pilgrimage, which began from Point 12, the entrance to the Monastery of the Ascension on the Mount of Olives, and weaved through the sacred landmarks of this historic and spiritual landscape.
