Baptism Site

Qasr el-Yahud, located on the western bank of the Jordan River, is revered as the site where John the Baptist baptized Jesus. This sacred location is situated in the desert landscape near Jericho, just upstream from where the river flows into the Dead Sea. Historically, the site is surrounded by ancient monasteries and chapels, many of which date back to the Byzantine and Crusader periods, highlighting its long-standing importance to Christian pilgrims. For several decades, the site was inaccessible due to political tensions, but it has since been reopened and remains a major spiritual destination. Visitors can descend modern wooden platforms to touch the waters of the Jordan River, which at this point is only a few meters wide, forming the border with Jordan. The serene desert surroundings, contrasted with the lush vegetation along the riverbank, provide a contemplative environment for those wishing to reconnect with biblical events. It stands as a powerful symbol of faith and history, bridging the ancient world with modern religious practice.

Nearby cities

East Jerusalem

East Jerusalem includes the Old City and major religious sites such as the Dome of the Rock.

Nablus Old City

The Old City is famous for its historic market and traditional soap factories.

Nablus

Nablus is situated between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim and is famous for its traditional soap production.

Ramallah

Ramallah is the political and economic administrative center of the West Bank.

Al-Bireh

Al-Bireh is adjacent to Ramallah, forming a continuous urban area.

Surif

Surif is located in the northwestern Hebron Governorate near the Green Line.

Al-Ram

Al-Ram is located north of Jerusalem and is a busy commercial and residential area.

Halhul

Halhul is located north of Hebron on one of the highest points in the West Bank.

Jericho

Jericho is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, located deep below sea level.

Bani Na'im

Bani Na'im is located east of Hebron and is known as the 'City of Martyrs'.

Sa'ir

Sa'ir is located northeast of Hebron in a deep valley.

Al-Eizariya

Al-Eizariya is historically known as Bethany and is located on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives.

Beit Jala

Beit Jala is a predominantly Christian town west of Bethlehem.

Tubas

Tubas is in the northeastern West Bank overlooking the Jordan Valley.

Beit Sahour

Beit Sahour is located east of Bethlehem and is traditionally identified with the Shepherds' Fields of the biblical Nativity story.

History & landmarks

Old City of Ramallah

The historical center of Ramallah preserves many Ottoman-era stone houses and serves as a vibrant cultural hub.

Monastery of Saint Gerasimus

The Monastery of Deir Hajla near Jericho is a desert oasis dedicated to Saint Gerasimus.

Nature

Dead Sea West Shore

The west shore of the Dead Sea features salt crystal formations and extreme environments.

More places

Jericho Oasis

The Jericho Oasis is fed by the Ein es-Sultan spring and features extensive palm groves.

Jericho Date Plantations

Jericho is famous for producing high-quality Medjool dates, exported worldwide to support the local economy.

Russian Museum Jericho

The Russian Museum in Jericho houses ancient mosaics and archaeological finds on Russian Orthodox property.