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Mount Zion

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Landmark
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Mount Zion (Israel)

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Mount Zion is a historic hill situated just outside the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem, holding immense spiritual significance for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike. It is home to several landmark sites, including the traditional Tomb of King David, the Room of the Last Supper (Cenacle), and the Abbey of the Dormition. The Abbey, with its prominent conical dome and bell tower, was constructed in the early 20th century atop the remains of the 4th-century Hagia Sion basilica. Historically, the name 'Zion' was originally associated with the City of David but gradually shifted to its current location during the Byzantine period. Between 1948 and 1967, Mount Zion served as a strategic Israeli enclave positioned directly on the border with Jordanian-controlled East Jerusalem. Today, the site attracts millions of visitors who come to explore its religious monuments, ancient archaeological excavations, and historical cemeteries, such as the Catholic cemetery where Oskar Schindler is buried. The hill has a unique synthesis of archaeological layers dating back to the Iron Age, the Second Temple period, and the Crusader era. Its enduring legacy and central role in biblical narratives make it one of the most revered locations in the Holy Land.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.

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Rain mm8862372151102144683

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Mount Zion is a hill just outside the Old City walls, with several religious sites open to visitors. The main attractions include the Room of the Last Supper (Cenacle) and King David's Tomb, each with its own entrance policy; most sites are free, but donations are appreciated.
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Typical hours
The Cenacle and King David's Tomb are typically open from morning until late afternoon, with a break for lunch. It is advisable to check the specific hours for each site as they vary by season.
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Photography
Photography is allowed in most areas, but some holy sites may restrict flash photography. The view from the roof of the Cenacle has a great photo opportunity of the Old City skyline.
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Time needed
A visit to the main sites on Mount Zion takes about one to two hours. If you also explore the Dormition Abbey and walk the ramparts, budget up to three hours.
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Combine with
Combine Mount Zion with the nearby Old City, including the Western Wall and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The Mount of Olives is also visible from here, making a full day of sightseeing easy.
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Getting there
Mount Zion is within walking distance from the Jaffa Gate of the Old City; the walk takes about 15 minutes. Buses and taxis stop nearby; the streets are well signposted. Alternatively, take bus lines 1 or 2 from central Jerusalem.
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Insider tip
Go early to avoid the midday heat and crowds. The site is popular with pilgrims, so expect queues at peak times. After visiting, walk down to the City of David for more historical exploration.

Geography

Coordinates
31.77120, 35.22890

Facts

  • The Dormition Abbey was built between 1900 and 1910 in a neo-Romanesque style.
  • King David's Tomb is located on the ground floor of a 12th-century Crusader building.
  • The Room of the Last Supper is situated directly above King David's Tomb.
  • From 1948 to 1967, Mount Zion was an Israeli enclave surrounded by Jordanian territory.
  • Oskar Schindler is buried in the Catholic cemetery located on the slopes of the hill.
  • The hill rises to an elevation of approximately 765 meters above sea level.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Tower of DavidTower of David<1 km · EExplore →
JerusalemJerusalem2 km · SExplore →
Mount of OlivesMount of Olives2 km · NExplore →
Jebel MukabbirJebel Mukabbir2 km · WExplore →
Mahane Yehuda MarketMahane Yehuda Market2 km · SEExplore →
Wadi el-Arayis Nature AreaWadi el-Arayis Nature Area3 km · NWExplore →
Al-EizariyaAl-Eizariya3 km · NExplore →
Jebel Abu GhneimJebel Abu Ghneim5 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Mount Zion (12)

Hidden Gate🏺 historical

This archaeological site reveals the remains of a secondary 'hidden' gate in Jerusalem's Byzantine walls.

Zion Gate📍 landmark

This Ottoman-era gate is still heavily scarred by bullet holes from the 1948 Arab-Israeli War.

Mount Zion🌿 nature

This historic hill outside the Old City walls is home to the Cenacle and the traditional site of King David's Tomb.

Excavations🏺 historical

These excavations on Mount Zion reveal residential remains and fortifications from the Herodian and Byzantine periods.

Ketef Hinnom🏺 historical

This archaeological site is where silver scrolls containing the oldest known biblical priestly blessings were discovered.

Jerusalem Music Centre🎭 culture

Founded by Isaac Stern, this music center is located in the historic Mishkenot Sha'ananim neighborhood.

Memorial of Father Joseph Germer-Durand (1845-1917)🏛 museum

This memorial honors Father Germer-Durand, an Assumptionist priest and pioneer of biblical archaeology in Jerusalem.

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Old mosque silwan⛪ religious

This historic mosque is located in the Silwan neighborhood, situated just below the slopes of Mount Zion.

Scherover Culture Center🎭 culture

A large cultural and cinema complex offering panoramic views of the Old City from its terraces.

Aceldama monastery⛪ religious

An Orthodox monastery built on the traditional site of the "Field of Blood," associated with Judas Iscariot.

Al-Noor Mosque📍 landmark

A local mosque serving the community on the southern slopes of Mount Zion.

Diaspora Yeshiva Toras Yisrael📍 landmark

A Jewish educational institution located near the traditional site of King David's Tomb.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is on Mount Zion?
David's Tomb and the Room of the Last Supper.
Is there an entry fee?
Most sites are accessible for free.
How long does the tour take?
About 1 to 2 hours.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, modest clothing is required.
Is it safe to reach on foot?
Yes, it is a short walk from the Old City.
Mount Zion: where is it located?
Mount Zion is located in Israel.
Mount Zion: what is there to see?
Highlights include Hidden Gate, Zion Gate, Mount Zion.
Mount Zion: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Mount Zion: why is it worth visiting?
Mount Zion is a historic hill situated just outside the walls of the Old City of Jerusalem, holding immense spiritual significance for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike.
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