10 Things to Do in the Monastery of the Temptation (Beit Jala) Palestine
Situated atop a mountain in the Palestinian city of Beit Jala, the Monastery of the Temptation is an ancient monastery and pilgrimage site that has been a part of the region’s Christian heritage for centuries. It is said to be the place where Jesus was tempted by the devil during his forty-day fast in the Judean Desert. The monastery is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and providing a unique insight into the region’s religious and cultural history. Here are 10 things to do in the Monastery of the Temptation.
1. Explore the Monastery Complex: The Monastery of the Temptation is made up of a complex of buildings, including a chapel, a library, a bell tower, and a museum. Explore the grounds and take in the historic architecture of the monastery.
2. Attend Mass: The Monastery of the Temptation is an active place of worship, so make sure to attend a service while you are there. Services are held in both Arabic and English and are open to the public.
3. Take in the View: From the top of the mountain, the views of Beit Jala and the surrounding area are absolutely breathtaking. Make sure to take some time to just sit and take it all in.
4. Visit the Garden of Gethsemane: Located just a short walk away from the Monastery of the Temptation is the Garden of Gethsemane, where Jesus is said to have prayed before his arrest. The garden is a tranquil oasis and a great place to spend some time in reflection.
5. Tour the Museum: The museum at the Monastery of the Temptation is home to a collection of religious artifacts, including ancient manuscripts and artwork. Take a tour and learn more about the history of the monastery.
6. Climb the Bell Tower: Climb the bell tower for an even more stunning view of the surrounding area. The climb is not for the faint of heart, but the views are worth it!
7. Visit the Grotto: The grotto at the Monastery of the Temptation is said to be the place where Jesus was tempted by the devil. Make sure to visit and take in the spiritual atmosphere.
8. Explore the Library: The library at the Monastery of the Temptation is home to a collection of ancient manuscripts, books, and documents. Spend some time exploring the library and learning more about the monastery’s history.
9. Attend a Lecture: The Monastery of the Temptation often hosts lectures and talks on topics related to the region’s religious and cultural history. Make sure to attend one while you are there.
10. Shop at the Souvenir Shop: The souvenir shop at the Monastery of the Temptation is the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir or gift. There are a variety of items to choose from, including books, artwork, jewelry, and more.