Mount of Olives

הר הזיתים

A sacred mountain east of the Old City with ancient churches, Jewish cemeteries, and the Garden of Gethsemane offering spiritual significance across multiple faiths. The panoramic views of Jerusalem from its summit and the historical churches make it an essential pilgrimage site.

Things to do

• Visit the Church of All Nations — This Byzantine-style church in the Garden of Gethsemane features stunning mosaics and is built over the rock where Jesus prayed before his arrest.
• Explore the Jewish Cemetery — One of the world's oldest continuously used burial grounds with over 150,000 graves spanning nearly 3,000 years of Jewish history.
• Summit panoramic viewpoint — Hike to the peak for breathtaking 360-degree views of Jerusalem's Old City, Temple Mount, and the surrounding Judean landscape.
• Tour the Russian Orthodox Church of Mary Magdalene — Distinctive golden onion domes mark this 19th-century church dedicated to Mary Magdalene, with ornate interiors and Russian Orthodox iconography.
• Walk through the Garden of Gethsemane — Stroll among ancient olive trees estimated to be 1,000+ years old in this peaceful garden sacred to Christianity.
• Visit the Mosque of Ascension — Islamic shrine marking the traditional site of Prophet Muhammad's night journey and Jesus's ascension according to Islamic tradition.

Food to try

• Za'atar-spiced bread at local bakeries — Fresh pita or focaccia bread topped with the distinctive Middle Eastern herb blend of thyme, sesame, and sumac, widely available near the base of Mount of Olives.
• Hummus at Palestinian establishments — Creamy chickpea dip served with warm pita, olive oil, and pine nuts, reflecting the local Palestinian culinary tradition in the surrounding villages.
• Stuffed grape leaves (dolma) — Rice and herb-filled vine leaves served as a traditional appetizer or light meal at small eateries throughout the area.
• Fresh fruit juices at vendor stalls — Freshly squeezed pomegranate, orange, and mixed fruit juices sold by street vendors along the walking paths up the mountain.
• Falafel sandwiches — Golden fried chickpea patties served in pita with tahini sauce and fresh vegetables, a quick and affordable meal option near the entrances.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect religious observance times — Visit churches and mosques outside of prayer times and services, and dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees when entering sacred spaces.
• Hebrew and Arabic are primary languages — While English is spoken at major sites, learning basic greetings in Hebrew and Arabic shows respect and facilitates interactions with local guides and vendors.
• Shabbat restrictions on Saturdays — Many Jewish-owned businesses and services close from Friday evening to Saturday evening; plan visits accordingly and avoid loud activities near residential areas during this holy day.
• Photography etiquette at cemeteries — Always ask permission before photographing graves or individuals, as the Jewish cemetery is an active burial site and sacred to many families.