The Oriental Churches - Introduction

The program focuses on the Oriental Christian Churches in Jerusalem, the Coptic, Syriac, Armenian, and Ethiopian Churches, examining their history and heritage in their countries of origin and their long-standing presence in the city. It highlights their deep connections to the holy places and the development of their distinct religious and communal identities. The program also addresses the challenges these communities face as religious minorities, including the preservation of identity, relations between communities, and interactions with authorities, and includes visits to their churches and institutions.

Training Type: Urban walking tour
Accessibility: Not accessible
Language: English

Meeting Point: Tower of David Jerusalem Museum
End Point: Jaffa Gate
Getting There: Accessible by public transportation to the meeting point, or parking available (blue-and-white zones) at your discretion
Route: Tower of David – introductory lecture; Armenian Monastery and courtyard of St. James Cathedral; Syriac Monastery; Coptic Monastery (within the Church of the Holy Sepulchre complex); Ethiopian Monastery (within the Church of the Holy Sepulchre complex); Greek Orthodox Monastery on Khanqah Street
Training Number: 6401

Training Program:
09:00–11:00 Introductory lecture: From Chalcedon to Jerusalem
11:00–11:10 Preparation and departure for the tour
11:10–12:00 Visit to St. Mark’s Monastery and the Syriac community
12:00–12:45 Visit to the Coptic Monastery
12:45–13:15 Lunch break
13:15–14:00 Visit to the Ethiopian Monastery at Deir al-Habas
14:00–15:00 Visit to the Orthodox monasteries on Al-Khanqah Street

Additional Requirements / Equipment: Comfortable walking shoes, hat, food, and water for the entire day. Modest dress required. No weapons permitted.

Please arrive approximately 10 minutes before the start of the training.

For inquiries: *2884

The training is intended for licensed tour guides certified by the Ministry of Tourism | Registration is limited