Plizio Visual Lab

Mount of Beatitudes

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
—°12
Mount of Beatitudes (Israel)

Weather…

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.

Best time to visit & climate

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

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C91013172225272725221611
Rain mm9077382161002134577

📋 Practical info

🚪
Visiting
The Mount of Beatitudes is a Christian pilgrimage site open to visitors. The site includes a church and well-kept gardens that can be freely entered.
🕒
Typical hours
The site is typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with shorter hours in winter. The church may close during lunch break.
📷
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the grounds; the gardens and view of the Sea of Galilee are beautiful. Inside the church, shoot quietly and without flash.
⏱️
Time needed
A visit to the church and gardens takes about 30 to 45 minutes. If you enjoy the peace and pray, plan for an hour.
Combine with
The Mount of Beatitudes is on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee, near Capernaum and Tabgha. Combine your visit with a tour of these biblical sites.
🧭
Getting there
The site is reachable by car or taxi from Tiberias in about 20 minutes. There is a large parking lot right at the entrance. Buses from Tiberias also run regularly.
💡
Insider tip
Come early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Bring a guidebook to better understand the biblical history of the site.

Geography

Coordinates
32.88050, 35.54690

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.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Mount of Beatitudes (12)

Ein Shemen📍 landmark

A natural freshwater spring in the Galilee hills not far from the Mount of Beatitudes.

Horbat Gov Yosef🏺 historical

Ruins of a caravanserai traditionally identified with the site where Joseph was thrown into the pit by his brothers.

Horbat Aqavya🏺 historical

The ruins of an ancient settlement on the rocky slopes of Eastern Galilee.

Ein Ezbonit📍 landmark

This small hillside spring has a view toward the nearby Sea of Galilee.

Horbat Sela🏺 historical

Archaeological remains of a historic hilltop settlement overlooking the valley.

Ein Kahal📍 landmark

This spring is mentioned in ancient scrolls as a hiding place for temple treasures.

Cave of the Robbers🌿 nature

Prehistoric cave where significant paleoanthropological finds, such as the 'Galilee Skull', were discovered.

Me`arat Ha`Ammud🌿 nature

This cave is named after a prominent, free-standing limestone pillar at its entrance.

Mt. Havakuk🌿 nature

A Galilee peak offering expansive views of the surrounding valleys and agricultural lands.

Church of Loaves and Fishes⛪ religious

This church, built in 1982, houses famous 4th-century Byzantine floor mosaics.

Domus Galilee⛪ religious

A modern Christian center with striking architecture and panoramic views over the lake.

Peter's Primacy Church⛪ religious

This lakeshore chapel was built over the rock where tradition says Jesus ate with his disciples.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is the Mount of Beatitudes holy?
Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount here.
How is the view of the lake?
Fantastic, a wonderful place for reflection.
Is admission free?
Yes, it is open to pilgrims and visitors.
Are there opening hours?
During the day, usually from 8 AM to 5 PM.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, a quiet place to walk around.
Mount of Beatitudes: where is it located?
Mount of Beatitudes is located in Israel.
Mount of Beatitudes: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ein Shemen, Horbat Gov Yosef, Horbat Aqavya.
Mount of Beatitudes: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Mount of Beatitudes: why is it worth visiting?
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.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Asia
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Asia
More places in Israel →

Nearby cities

History & landmarks

Nature

More places