10 Things to Do in Mar Saba Monastery, Bethlehem Palestine
Mar Saba Monastery, located in the Judean Desert in Bethlehem, Palestine, is a stunningly beautiful and historically significant site. It is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in the world, having been founded in the late 5th century by Saint Sabbas the Sanctified. The monastery is perched atop a cliff overlooking the Kidron Valley, and is a popular destination for pilgrims, tourists, and hikers alike. Here are 10 things to do in Mar Saba Monastery, Bethlehem Palestine.
1. Explore the Monastery: Mar Saba Monastery is home to many ancient and fascinating artifacts, including ancient manuscripts, mosaics, and Byzantine frescoes. Take a guided tour of the monastery and its grounds to learn about its history and explore its treasures.
2. Visit the Cave of St. Sabbas: Located on the grounds of the monastery, the Cave of St. Sabbas is said to be the place where the saint spent much of his time in prayer and meditation. Take a guided tour of the cave and learn about the history of the saint and the monastery.
3. Attend a Service: Mar Saba Monastery is a functioning monastery, and visitors are welcome to attend services. Services are typically held in the morning and evening, and are conducted in Greek and Arabic.
4. Take a Hike: Mar Saba Monastery is located in the Judean Desert, and the area is home to some beautiful hiking trails. Take a hike to explore the area and take in the stunning views of the Kidron Valley.
5. Visit the Grotto of St. Sabbas: Located near the monastery, the Grotto of St. Sabbas is said to be the place where the saint spent much of his time in prayer and meditation. Take a guided tour of the grotto and learn about the history of the saint and the monastery.
6. Visit the Church of the Nativity: Located in Bethlehem, the Church of the Nativity is said to be the birthplace of Jesus. Take a tour of the church and learn about its history and significance.
7. Visit the Garden of Gethsemane: Located in the Kidron Valley, the Garden of Gethsemane is said to be the place where Jesus prayed the night before his crucifixion. Take a guided tour of the garden and learn about its history and significance.
8. Visit the Mount of Olives: Located near the Garden of Gethsemane, the Mount of Olives is said to be the place where Jesus ascended to heaven. Take a guided tour of the mount and learn about its history and significance.
9. Visit the Tomb of the Virgin Mary: Located in the Kidron Valley, the Tomb of the Virgin Mary is said to be the burial place of the mother of Jesus. Take a guided tour of the tomb and learn about its history and significance.
10. Take a Tour of Bethlehem: Located just a few miles from Mar Saba Monastery, Bethlehem is home to many important religious sites. Take a tour of the city and visit the Church of the Nativity, the Garden of Gethsemane, and the Tomb of the Virgin Mary.
Mar Saba Monastery is a stunningly beautiful and historically significant site, and is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Bethlehem, Palestine. Whether you’re a pilgrim, a tourist, or a hiker, there is plenty to do and explore in the area. Take a guided tour of the monastery and its grounds, explore the Cave of St. Sabbas, and visit the many important religious sites nearby. There is something for everyone to enjoy in Mar Saba Monastery, Bethlehem Palestine.