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Mount Gerizim Site

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Mount Gerizim Site (Palestinian Territories)

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Mount Gerizim, rising south of the city of Nablus, is revered as the holiest site on earth by the Samaritan community. The archaeological complex at its summit features the significant remains of a Samaritan temple from the Persian and Hellenistic periods, which was later supplanted in the 5th century by a massive Byzantine church. While mainstream Jewish tradition focuses on the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, Samaritans maintain that Gerizim is the true location of the divine sanctuary mentioned in the Torah. Today, a bustling yet small Samaritan community resides in the village of Kiryat Luza on the mountain's slope, where they continue to perform the annual Passover sacrifice according to ancient rites. Excavations have revealed impressive fortification walls and Roman-era ruins that attest to the site's strategic value. Beyond its religious weight, the peak gives sweeping panoramic views over biblical Shechem and modern Nablus, highlighting its historical role as a sentinel over the region's central crossroads.

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
The archaeological site on Mount Gerizim features remains of a Samaritan temple and is open to visitors. You can explore the open-air area, visit the viewing platform, and see the nearby museum. The holy site of the Samaritan community is close by.
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Typical hours
The excavation site is typically open daily from sunrise to sunset. The museum often has separate hours, usually 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Access may be limited during Samaritan religious holidays.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the site, but without flash in covered areas. Drones are not permitted without authorization. Please respect the holy site and Samaritan worshippers.
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Time needed
Allow about one to two hours for the archaeological site and museum. The view from Mount Gerizim over the surrounding area is dramatic and worth lingering. Hiking in the area adds extra time.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with the city of Nablus and its historic markets. The Samaritan village on the mountain is also worth a detour. The biblical city of Shechem lies nearby.
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Getting there
Mount Gerizim is easily reached by car or taxi from Nablus. A bus line runs irregularly; inquire locally. Hiking up is possible but strenuous.
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Insider tip
Wear sturdy footwear as the terrain is uneven. Bring water and sun protection, especially in summer. Respect Samaritan customs and ask permission before photographing people.

Geography

Coordinates
32.19940, 35.27360

Facts

  • Summit elevation is 881 meters above sea level
  • Byzantine church was built in 484 AD
  • Remains of a Samaritan temple from 5th century BC
  • Home to a small Samaritan community
  • Site of the annual Samaritan Passover sacrifice
  • Archaeological park opened in the 1990s

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mount GerizimMount Gerizim<1 km · SWExplore →
Jacob's WellJacob's Well2 km · NEExplore →
Nablus Old CityNablus Old City2 km · SEExplore →
Mount Ebal Nature AreaMount Ebal Nature Area3 km · EExplore →
Nablus Furniture IndustryNablus Furniture Industry4 km · SEExplore →
Mount SalmanMount Salman5 km · SExplore →
Samarian HighlandsSamarian Highlands5 km · SWExplore →
Wadi al-Badhan Nature AreaWadi al-Badhan Nature Area7 km · NEExplore →

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 Gerizim Site (5)

Mount Gerizim🌿 nature

Sacred mountain of the Samaritans offering panoramic views over Nablus.

Samaritan Museum🏛 museum

Museum on Mount Gerizim dedicated to the history and traditions of the Samaritan community.

Rif'at Al Hawari📍 landmark

Small local mosque situated on the slopes of the holy Mount Gerizim.

Rojeeb📍 landmark

Village mosque in Rujeib with views of the surrounding Samaritan hills.

Omar Bin Al-Khattab Mosque📍 landmark

Traditional mosque serving the Gerizim neighborhood of Nablus.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How difficult is the hike up Mount Gerizim?
The hike is moderately strenuous but well-paved.
What is there to see at the archaeological site?
You can see the ruins of an ancient Samaritan place of worship.
Do I need a guide?
A guide is recommended to better understand the history.
Are there shaded areas on the mountain?
There is little natural shade, so bring sun protection.
Is it suitable for children?
Educational for older kids, but tiring in heat.
Mount Gerizim Site: where is it located?
Mount Gerizim Site is located in Palestinian Territories.
Mount Gerizim Site: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mount Gerizim, Samaritan Museum, Rif'at Al Hawari.
Mount Gerizim Site: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
Mount Gerizim Site: why is it worth visiting?
Mount Gerizim, rising south of the city of Nablus, is revered as the holiest site on earth by the Samaritan community.
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Nearby cities

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

Old City of Ramallah — Mount Gerizim Site (Palestinian Territories)
Old City of Ramallah
The historical center of Ramallah preserves many Ottoman-era stone houses and serves as a vibrant cultural hub.