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Monastery of the Temptation

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Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)

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The Monastery of the Temptation, also known as Deir al-Quruntal, is a memorable Greek Orthodox monastery built into the sheer cliffs of Mount Quarantania, overlooking the ancient city of Jericho. Christian tradition holds that this is the site where Jesus fasted for 40 days and nights and was tempted by the devil. While the present structure dates mostly back to the late 19th century, the mountain has been a site of monastic life since the 6th century, when monks inhabited the caves scattered across the cliffside. The monastery is accessible either via a steep, winding footpath or by a modern cable car from Jericho, which gives spectacular views of the world's oldest city and the Jordan Valley. Inside, a small chapel is built around a stone said to be where Jesus sat during his trials. The monastery's balconies provide a panoramic panorama stretching as far as the Dead Sea and the mountains of Moab. Combining profound religious significance with dramatic cliffside architecture, it remains one of the most spiritually evocative and visually striking pilgrimage sites in the Holy Land.

Best time to visit & climate

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

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C111316202428303028241814
Rain mm635832156101182952

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
This Greek Orthodox monastery clings to a cliff where Jesus resisted temptation, allowing visitors to enter the cave-chapel. The inner courtyard features sweeping views, and access is via a steep path or cable car from Jericho.
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Typical hours
Typically opening around 8 a.m. to sunset, the monastery may close during midday prayers and on major religious holidays. It is best to arrive early to ensure entry and avoid service interruptions.
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Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the chapel with flash discouraged, while the courtyard and terraces allow unrestricted shots. Be respectful and silent during prayer times to avoid disturbing worshippers.
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Time needed
Plan at least 45 minutes to one hour, including cable car time; the views and atmosphere reward a longer visit. If hiking, add 30 minutes for the steep climb.
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Combine with
Combine with the cable car ride, Jericho's ruins, Hisham's Palace, and the Jordan River baptismal site for a full day. All are within a short drive or walk from the monastery.
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Getting there
The easiest access is via the cable car from Jericho, which usually runs from morning to late afternoon. Taxis from the city center are affordable and quick, or you can hike the steep path for a more adventurous approach.
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Insider tip
Arrive early to beat the heat and crowds; modest dress covering shoulders and knees is required. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially in the hot months.

Geography

Coordinates
31.87440, 35.43190

Facts

  • The monastery is located 350 meters above sea level on the cliffside.
  • It is accessible from Jericho via a modern cable car system.
  • The structure is built around a cave traditionally identified as Jesus's dwelling.
  • Mount Quarantania is also known by its Arabic name, Jebel Qarantal.
  • The current monastery building was completed in 1895.
  • Ruins of a medieval Crusader-era church are integrated into the site.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mount of Temptation SlopesMount of Temptation Slopes<1 km · SWExplore →
Ein es-Sultan SpringEin es-Sultan Spring2 km · NWExplore →
JerichoJericho3 km · NWExplore →
Jericho Date PlantationsJericho Date Plantations3 km · NExplore →
Hisham's PalaceHisham's Palace3 km · NExplore →
St. George's MonasterySt. George's Monastery3 km · SWExplore →
Wadi el-Makkuk Nature ReserveWadi el-Makkuk Nature Reserve5 km · SExplore →
Wadi AujaWadi Auja6 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Monastery of the Temptation (9)

The Dok Fortress

Fortress ruins on a rock above Jericho, overlooking the oasis.

Mount of Temptation

Mountain in the Jordan Valley, traditionally where Jesus was tempted.

Mount of Temptation Viewpoint

Viewpoint on Mount of Temptation, looking over Jericho and the Jordan Valley.

emran samarat house

Private building in Jericho, used as a lookout point over the area.

Ancient Jericho

Ruins of the ancient city of Jericho, one of the oldest settlements.

Tel Jericho

Archaeological site in the West Bank, a tell with multiple settlement layers.

Ain al-Sultan

Spring in the West Bank, has watered the Jericho oasis for millennia.

Tell es-Samarat

Archaeological mound in Jericho, containing remains from various periods.

Al Murabitin Mosque

Mosque in Jericho, serving the local Muslim community for prayers.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How to get to the Monastery of the Temptation?
It is accessible via cable car or a steep hiking path.
Is the climb strenuous?
The footpath is very steep and physically demanding in the heat.
When should one visit the monastery?
Visit early in the morning to avoid the midday sun.
Is there an entry fee?
Access is free, but the cable car requires a fee.
How long does the visit take?
Plan for about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Monastery of the Temptation: where is it located?
Monastery of the Temptation is located in Palestinian Territories.
Monastery of the Temptation: what is there to see?
Highlights include The Dok Fortress, Mount of Temptation, Mount of Temptation Viewpoint.
Monastery of the Temptation: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
Monastery of the Temptation: why is it worth visiting?
The Monastery of the Temptation, also known as Deir al-Quruntal, is a memorable Greek Orthodox monastery built into the sheer cliffs of Mount Quarantania, overlooking the ancient city of Jericho.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

East Jerusalem — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
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East Jerusalem includes the Old City and major religious sites such as the Dome of the Rock.
Nablus Old City — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
Nablus Old City
The Old City is famous for its historic market and traditional soap factories.
Nablus — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
Nablus
Nablus is situated between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim and is famous for its traditional soap production.
Ramallah — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
Ramallah
Ramallah is the political and economic administrative center of the West Bank.
Al-Bireh — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
Al-Bireh
Al-Bireh is adjacent to Ramallah, forming a continuous urban area.
Surif — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
Surif
Surif is located in the northwestern Hebron Governorate near the Green Line.
Al-Ram — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
Al-Ram
Al-Ram is located north of Jerusalem and is a busy commercial and residential area.
Halhul — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
Halhul
Halhul is located north of Hebron on one of the highest points in the West Bank.
Jericho — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
Jericho
Jericho is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, located deep below sea level.
Bani Na&#39;im — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
Bani Na'im
Bani Na'im is located east of Hebron and is known as the 'City of Martyrs'.
Sa&#39;ir — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
Sa'ir
Sa'ir is located northeast of Hebron in a deep valley.
Al-Eizariya — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
Al-Eizariya
Al-Eizariya is historically known as Bethany and is located on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives.
Beit Jala — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
Beit Jala
Beit Jala is a predominantly Christian town west of Bethlehem.
Tubas — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
Tubas
Tubas is in the northeastern West Bank overlooking the Jordan Valley.
Beit Sahour — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
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 — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
Old City of Ramallah
The historical center of Ramallah preserves many Ottoman-era stone houses and serves as a vibrant cultural hub.
Mount of Temptation Monastery — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
Mount of Temptation Monastery
The Greek Orthodox monastery clings to a cliff above Jericho, where tradition says Jesus fasted for 40 days.

More places

Mount of Temptation Slopes — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
Mount of Temptation Slopes
The slopes of the Mount of Temptation near Jericho host rare desert flora and cave-dwelling bats.
Mount of Temptation — Monastery of the Temptation (Palestinian Territories)
Mount of Temptation
This steep mountain near Jericho rises prominently above the Jordan Valley.