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Mount of Beatitudes
The Mount of Beatitudes is a hill overlooking the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee, traditionally identified as the site where Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount. At its summit stands a Roman Catholic chapel built between 1937 and 1938 by the Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi. The church features a unique octagonal design, with each of its eight sides dedicated to one of the eight beatitudes listed in the Gospel of Matthew. Constructed in a Neo-Byzantine style, the building utilizes contrasting local black basalt and white limestone to emphasize its architectural forms. From the church's extensive terraces, visitors are treated to panoramic views of the Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights, and the surrounding agricultural landscape. Archaeological evidence suggests that the site has been honored since the 4th century, as ruins of a Byzantine monastery were discovered nearby. The beautifully landscaped gardens provide a serene environment for pilgrims who come from around the world for prayer and reflection. The site is currently maintained by the Franciscan Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, who also operate a guest house for travelers. Its combination of profound religious history and scenic tranquility makes it one of the most significant stops on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land.
- Location: Israel
- Top sights: Ein Shemen · Horbat Gov Yosef · Horbat Aqavya
- Nearby: Rosh Pinna (8 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 | 9 | 10 | 13 | 17 | 22 | 25 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 22 | 16 | 11 |
| Rain mm | 90 | 77 | 38 | 21 | 6 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 13 | 45 | 77 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The current church was completed in 1938 by the architect Antonio Barluzzi.
- The octagonal shape of the building represents the eight beatitudes.
- Ruins of a 4th-century Byzantine church were discovered just below the site.
- Pope Paul VI visited the site in 1964, the first pope to do so in modern times.
- The chapel was built using a combination of black basalt and white limestone.
- The hill rises approximately 175 meters above the surface of the Sea of Galilee.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Mount of Beatitudes (12)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Mount of Beatitudes holy?
How is the view of the lake?
Is admission free?
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Mount of Beatitudes: where is it located?
Mount of Beatitudes: what is there to see?
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