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Mount of Olives
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Landmark
The Mount of Olives is situated to the east of Jerusalem's Old City and stands as one of the most sacred sites in the region for Jews, Christians, and Muslims. It derives its name from the olive groves that once covered its slopes and still survive in places like the Garden of Gethsemane. For over 3,000 years, the mountain has served as a Jewish cemetery, containing an estimated 150,000 graves, making it one of the oldest and most important burial grounds in the world. In the Christian tradition, the mount is closely associated with the final days of Jesus' life, specifically Gethsemane and the site of the Ascension. Its geographic elevation of 826 meters provides a commanding panoramic view of the Temple Mount and the entire skyline of the Old City. Numerous churches, including the Church of All Nations and Dominus Flevit, dot the hillside, reflecting its deep religious heritage. The Mount of Olives continues to be a central location for pilgrimage and spiritual reflection.
- Location: Israel
- Top sights: Monastery of Martyrius · Bethphage monastery · Tower of the White Russian Church
- Nearby: Modi'in (28 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 12 | 15 | 18 | 22 | 25 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 23 | 18 | 14 |
| Rain mm | 88 | 62 | 37 | 21 | 5 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 14 | 46 | 83 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Mount of Olives is an open public hill with no entrance barrier, so you can visit it at any time of day or night. However, the churches and shrines on the summit typically have restricted hours and may charge a small entrance fee.
Typical hours
As an open area, the mount itself has no set hours; you can go there 24/7 for the view. The religious sites on the mount, such as the Church of the Ascension, usually open from early morning to late afternoon, but confirm locally.
Photography
Photography is freely allowed on the mount and from the viewing platforms facing the Old City. A telephoto lens helps capture details of the Dome of the Rock and the cityscape below. For the best light, come at dawn or dusk when the golden glow illuminates the landscape.
Time needed
Most visitors spend around one to two hours walking along the ridge and visiting the main viewpoints. If you plan to enter all the churches and walk down to the Garden of Gethsemane, budget up to three hours.
Combine with
Combine a visit with the Garden of Gethsemane at the foot of the mount, which is a short walk downhill. The Old City of Jerusalem with its many historical and religious sites is easily accessible from the mount.
Getting there
The easiest way to get to the Mount of Olives is by taxi from anywhere in Jerusalem; the ride takes about 15 minutes from the Old City. Alternatively, take bus lines 75 or 255 from the central bus station to the stop near the Seven Arches Hotel.
Insider tip
Arrive early in the morning to enjoy the view without the crowds and intense sun. If you are fit, consider walking down the Palm Sunday pathway to the Garden of Gethsemane for a memorable descent.
Geography
Facts
- The mount reaches a peak elevation of 826 meters above sea level.
- There are an estimated 150,000 graves on the Jewish cemetery slopes.
- Jewish burial on the mountain began at least 3,000 years ago.
- The Kidron Valley separates the Mount of Olives from the Old City walls.
- It is home to the Church of All Nations, built between 1919 and 1924.
- The mount is historically mentioned in both the Old and New Testaments.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Mount of Olives (12)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Mount of Olives known?
For its panoramic view of the Old City and its religious history.
Can you walk up the Mount of Olives?
Yes, but the path is steep and sunny.
How long does the visit take?
Plan for about 2 hours for the tour.
Are the cemeteries accessible?
Partially, but please respect the privacy.
When is the view best?
At sunrise or sunset.
Mount of Olives: where is it located?
Mount of Olives is located in Israel.
Mount of Olives: what is there to see?
Highlights include Monastery of Martyrius, Bethphage monastery, Tower of the White Russian Church.
Mount of Olives: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Mount of Olives: why is it worth visiting?
The Mount of Olives is situated to the east of Jerusalem's Old City and stands as one of the most sacred sites in the region for Jews, Christians, and Muslims.
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