Mount of Olives
The Mount of Olives is also called the Mount of Olives, since in ancient times it was completely planted with olives. This hill is located in the east near one of the walls of Old Jerusalem. An important place for all believers; significant biblical events took place on this mountain. If you look from the Mount of Olives, you can see an incomparable panorama of the city. Tens of thousands of pilgrims make their way to this holy place every year.
Brief description
There are three peaks on the Mount of Olives. Important landmarks were built on them: a university town, a hospital and a monastery. On the slopes of the mountain are located:
- ancient holy cemetery, includes more than 150,000 burials;
- tomb;
- Christian shrines;
- tombs of the prophets.
Religious significance
Believers honor every stone of the Mount of Olives. According to biblical legend, Jesus Christ himself ascended this mountain. Here he preached and prayed. On the same mountain Judas betrayed him, it was from this mountain that Jesus ascended to heaven and left his mark on one of the stones. Also, the Mount of Olives has an incomparable nature. At the foot there are gardens with centuries-old olive trees. When the sun rises, the garden takes on an unusual color and it seems as if the olives are floating above the ground. This garden is visible to pilgrims from afar, but it is fenced off from visitors.
Road to the Mount of Olives
It passes by Old Jerusalem. Along the way you can see the Lion Gate. At the foot of the holy mountain, people find themselves in a gorge formed between the Old City and the sacred mountain. The mountain slope is difficult to overcome; hot weather often takes its toll, but travelers are encouraged by the beautiful views.
You can also make your trip by taxi. There are buses leaving from the Arab station that will take you to the top. If you decide to get to the top by car yourself, then you need to take into account that there may be difficulties with packing places. Clothes when traveling should be as closed as possible. Shoulders and knees must be covered, and women must wear a headscarf.
Observation deck
An observation deck was built on the Mount of Olives. From here you can observe the city, mosques, ancient walls, temples and gilded gates. There is a view of the Christian Quarter, with an important Christian landmark - the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Binoculars will help you see the most distant corners of the panorama.
Holy places
Travelers should check in advance the opening hours and days of historical structures, as there are a large number of temples and churches located on the peaks. Most facilities are open in the morning. You can also attend a religious procession on Lazarus Saturday. Palm branches are used in this event. The Mount of Olives remains iconic for believers; it is the largest hill in the vicinity of Jerusalem, which the whole world knows about. Not only believers can come here; in this place you can find peace and tranquility.
