The monastery of Our Lady of Sion can serve as a base for visits to the Holy City in one of the most picturesque settings of the region.
The guesthouse, built in 1861 and originally used as an orphanage, is set within the walls of an active working monastery in an ensemble of stone buildings. Visitors can enjoy a quiet and peaceful ambiance, wonderful views and a warm welcome, in a spirit of openness and hospitality.
Ein Kerem is the village where the expectant Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth and the birthplace of John the Baptist.
The main attraction within the monastery walls is the sanctuary of peace found in the gardens, where native plants are abundant. There are 150-year-old cedars of Lebanon, pine, oak and carob trees. Fruit trees include pomegranates, oranges, lemons, grapefruit, grapes and figs. Fruit and vegetables from the garden’s orchard appear at different times of the year on the guesthouse’s dining tables in main courses and desserts.
You can wander down shaded paths among flowers and water features, accompanied by bird song. Or sit in quiet contemplation as you take in the sublime spiritual atmosphere and the views of the Judean hills.
The Chapel, striking for its simplicity and beautiful acoustics, maintains its Christian identity whilst reflecting sensitivity to neighbours and guests of other faiths.
A simple house within the gardens holds a small museum collection on the history of Our Lady of Sion in Jerusalem. This was the home of Alphonse Ratisbonne, who was instrumental in establishing the Congregation’s presence in the Holy Land.
All rooms are air-conditioned and heated and have en-suite bathrooms and WiFi, and views of the gardens and surrounding countryside.
Accommodation is on a bed and breakfast basis, and other meals may be ordered in advance. Coffee and tea are available throughout the day.
Accommodation
Group bookings are welcome.
Meetings
The monastery has two large venues for meetings, concerts, lectures and workshops, and particularly welcomes interfaith and intercultural meetings.
Lunch
Groups can make arrangements in advance for lunch and dinner.
The monastery welcomes people who wish to visit the gardens. They are open to visitors:
Monday – Friday: 9.00 am – 12.00 noon, 2.00 – 4.45 pm
Saturday: 9.00 am – 4.45 pm
Sundays: closed
The Chapel is open to visitors during the opening times of the gardens.
The Chapel can also be reserved for concerts of religious music.
Parking is available to visitors and people staying at the monastery as guests.
Sisters and our staff will be pleased to advise you about excursions in Ein Kerem, to Jerusalem and further afield.
EnquiriesIf you’d rather stay in the heart of the Holy City, Ecce Homo pilgrim house is just minutes’ walk from Jerusalem’s main Jewish, Muslim and Christian sacred sites.
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