Church of Pater Noster Jerusalem
Sacred site on Mount of Olives where Jesus taught the Lord's Prayer, featuring unique multilingual prayer walls and stunning city views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer tour groups
Church of Pater Noster Jerusalem
Best Time
Fewer tour groups

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sacred site on Mount of Olives where Jesus taught the Lord's Prayer, featuring unique multilingual prayer walls and stunning city views.
"A must-visit for its spiritual significance and breathtaking views of Jerusalem."
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views of Jerusalem are incredible! Don't forget your camera or phone for stunning photos.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Lord's Prayer Walls
Main Church Courtyard
Marvel at the stunning ceramic tiles inscribed with the Lord's Prayer in over 100 languages.

Mount of Olives Views
Terrace
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Old City of Jerusalem from this elevated vantage point.

The Eleona Basilica Ruins
Underneath the current church
Explore the remnants of the ancient basilica, believed to be built on the site of Jesus' teachings.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Pater Noster
Dress Modestly for Sacred Sites
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views of Jerusalem are incredible! Don't forget your camera or phone for stunning photos.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
🙏 Modest Attire Required
Cover shoulders and knees. A light scarf can be useful for women.
🗣️ Learn the Prayer
Recite the Lord's Prayer in different languages on the beautiful tiled walls.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views of Jerusalem are incredible! Don't forget your camera or phone for stunning photos.
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces. Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
🙏 Modest Attire Required
Cover shoulders and knees. A light scarf can be useful for women.
🗣️ Learn the Prayer
Recite the Lord's Prayer in different languages on the beautiful tiled walls.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Church of Pater Noster for its spiritual significance and the unique Lord's Prayer walls. The stunning panoramic views of Jerusalem are a major highlight, offering a breathtaking backdrop. Some find the site can get crowded with tour groups, and recommend visiting during off-peak hours for a more serene experience.
"The place where Jesus thought his disciples our main prayer. It has the prayer in 100 different languages. Loved it! The church is controlled by French government, it has a French flag in the front door. They have bathrooms. No tickets required. The cave underground could have been the place where Jesus thought it."
Fernanda Ayres
"This place took time when we visited in a group of 50 in November 2022, because there were several other large groups waiting too. We went inside the cave to see the Rock, said to be where Jesus sat and taught the Lord's Prayer. We just had a few minutes to quickly see some of the 177 translations of the prayer, displayed all around the compound."
Eileen Weed
"We are going with Insight Tour, one of the Best Holyland Tour from Jakarta, Indonesia.
The Pater Noster Church is a significant religious site located on the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem. It is believed to be the site where Jesus Christ taught his disciples the Lord's Prayer, also known as the Pater Noster in Latin, hence the name of the church.
The current structure of the church was built in the 19th century by French architect, Antonio Barluzzi, and is adorned with beautiful mosaics depicting the Lord's Prayer in various languages. The church also contains a small cave believed to be the spot where Jesus taught his disciples.
Throughout history, the Pater Noster Church has undergone several renovations and changes in ownership. In the 4th century, a small church was built on the site, which was later destroyed by the Persians in the 7th century. The church was rebuilt by the Crusaders in the 12th century and was later destroyed again by the Muslim conqueror Saladin in the 13th century. The church remained in ruins until it was rebuilt in the 19th century.
Today, the Pater Noster Church is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims visiting Jerusalem. Its stunning architecture and rich history make it a must-see attraction for anyone interested in religious sites and architecture."
Mario Fabianus Salim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Church of Pater Noster is located on the Mount of Olives. You can reach it by taxi or by taking a local bus to the Mount of Olives area. From there, it's a short walk. Many visitors combine a visit with other sites on the Mount of Olives, like the Garden of Gethsemane.
Yes, it's generally well-signposted, especially if you're heading towards other Mount of Olives attractions. Look for signs directing you to the Pater Noster Sanctuary.
It's a steep uphill walk from the Old City, which can take about 30-45 minutes. While possible, many visitors prefer to take a taxi or bus to save energy for exploring the site itself.
Taxis are readily available. Local buses also serve the Mount of Olives, offering a more budget-friendly option. Walking between sites on the Mount of Olives is common for pilgrims and tourists.
Limited parking may be available in the general Mount of Olives area, but it can be challenging, especially during peak tourist seasons. It's often easier to rely on taxis or public transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The opening hours for the Church of Pater Noster can vary, but it's generally open daily from morning until late afternoon. It's always a good idea to check the most current hours before your visit, as they can be affected by religious holidays or events.
Entry to the Church of Pater Noster is typically free, as it is a place of worship and pilgrimage. However, donations are always appreciated to help with the upkeep of the site.
No, there is generally no entrance fee for the Church of Pater Noster. It's a sacred site open to visitors and pilgrims.
Yes, you can typically visit on a Friday. However, as it's a holy day for Muslims and a busy day for Jewish and Christian sites in Jerusalem, it might be more crowded.
The church may have reduced hours or be closed during significant religious services or holidays. It's advisable to confirm hours directly with the sanctuary if you are visiting during a major religious period.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Church of Pater Noster is believed to be built on the site where Jesus taught his disciples the Lord's Prayer. It's a significant pilgrimage destination for Christians worldwide.
Modest attire is required. This means covering your shoulders and knees. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended due to the terrain.
While there might not be official guided tours readily available on-site, many tour groups visit the church. You can also hire a local guide in Jerusalem who can provide in-depth historical and religious context for your visit.
The courtyard features beautiful ceramic tiles inscribed with the Lord's Prayer in over 100 different languages, a unique and inspiring display.
Photography is generally permitted in the courtyard and outdoor areas. However, it's always respectful to check for any signage or ask permission before taking photos inside the main church building, especially during services.
📸 📸 Photography
The courtyard with the Lord's Prayer tiles offers fantastic photo opportunities. The panoramic views of Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives are also spectacular.
Photography is generally allowed in the outdoor areas and courtyard. Be mindful of other visitors and any restrictions inside the church itself.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, enhancing the views of Jerusalem. Early morning can also be good for softer light and fewer crowds.
Drone usage is typically restricted in sensitive religious and historical areas in Jerusalem. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise.
Focus on the intricate details of the Lord's Prayer tiles, the expansive city views, and the architectural elements of the church and monastery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Pilgrims and Religious Visitors
Consider visiting during quieter times to fully immerse yourself. Many pilgrims find solace and inspiration in reciting the prayer in various languages on the courtyard walls. The panoramic views also offer a moment of awe and connection to the Holy Land.
History Buffs and Culture Enthusiasts
The collection of Lord's Prayer tiles in over 100 languages is a fascinating cultural artifact, showcasing the prayer's global impact. Combine your visit with other historical sites on the Mount of Olives for a comprehensive understanding of the area's rich past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Mount of Olives
For Christians, the Mount of Olives is deeply connected to the final days of Jesus' life, including his teachings, prayers, and ascension. The Church of Pater Noster, specifically, is believed to be the site where Jesus taught his disciples the Lord's Prayer, making it a key pilgrimage destination. The ancient Jewish cemetery on its slopes also holds immense historical and religious importance.
Visiting the Mount of Olives offers a profound spiritual and historical experience. It's a place where ancient narratives come to life, providing context for biblical events and offering stunning vistas that have inspired visitors for centuries.
Exploring the Lord's Prayer Walls
Visitors can spend time walking along the walls, searching for familiar languages or discovering prayers in scripts they've never seen before. It's a peaceful and reflective experience, encouraging contemplation on the shared human desire for connection and guidance. The sheer variety of languages represented highlights the diverse community of pilgrims and visitors who have come to this sacred site.
This artistic and linguistic collection makes the Church of Pater Noster a memorable stop. It's not just a place of worship but also a cultural mosaic, celebrating the enduring power of a single prayer across different cultures and times.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit