Dominus Flevit Church Jerusalem
A teardrop-shaped church on the Mount of Olives, commemorating Jesus' lament over Jerusalem, offering stunning views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Dominus Flevit Church Jerusalem
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A teardrop-shaped church on the Mount of Olives, commemorating Jesus' lament over Jerusalem, offering stunning views.
"The view from the altar window is simply breathtaking, a must-see for any visitor to Jerusalem."
🎯 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as this is a sacred site. :pray:
📸 Capture the View
The altar window offers an iconic shot of the Old City. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Teardrop Architecture
Exterior
A modern church designed in the shape of a teardrop, symbolizing Jesus' sorrow for Jerusalem.
Altar View of the Old City
Interior
The altar's mosaic depicts a mother hen and chicks, with a window framing a breathtaking view of the Temple Mount.
Byzantine Tomb Complex
Underneath the church
Discover ancient ossuaries and remnants of a Byzantine church, offering a glimpse into Jerusalem's past.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Dominus Flevit
Understanding the Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as this is a sacred site. :pray:
📸 Capture the View
The altar window offers an iconic shot of the Old City. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Walk the Mount of Olives
Combine your visit with a stroll on the Mount of Olives for panoramic city vistas. :athletic_shoe:
🙏 Reflect on the Meaning
Take time to absorb the 'Lord Wept' narrative and its significance. :thought_balloon:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as this is a sacred site. :pray:
📸 Capture the View
The altar window offers an iconic shot of the Old City. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Walk the Mount of Olives
Combine your visit with a stroll on the Mount of Olives for panoramic city vistas. :athletic_shoe:
🙏 Reflect on the Meaning
Take time to absorb the 'Lord Wept' narrative and its significance. :thought_balloon:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Dominus Flevit Church for its breathtaking views of Jerusalem and its unique, poignant architecture. The symbolic teardrop shape and the altar's view of the Temple Mount are frequently highlighted as profound experiences. While generally well-received, some find the interior a bit sparse, and the crowds can occasionally detract from the contemplative atmosphere.
"View through the stained glass windows looking upon the Old City is iconic. Time stops. And a sense of awe overwhelms. The same view gazed upon by millions of pilgrims seeking a feeling, a glimpse, a memory of the Divine."
Justin Wilkerson
"Dominus flevit 'the Lord wept' in Latin. It is here that Jesus prophesied the destruction of Jerusalem, when He entered the city of Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. A beautiful architectural delight, built between 1953 and 1955. A serene and peaceful atmosphere. An amazing view of the old city of Jerusalem can be seen from here. Must visit church in Jerusalem."
Atine De
"Dominus Flevit is one of the attractions at the Mount of Olives, situated a fair distance up the slope past the Church of Saint Mary Magdalena. Opening hours are 8-11.45am and 2.30-5pm daily.
There is a small church on the grounds that is famously shaped like a tear drop, to commemorate the belief that Christ wept for Jerusalem upon this site. You can enter the small church, sit for a brief rest from climbing the steep street up to the church grounds.
Within the church, you will see a beautiful view of the Old City when peering out the window behind the alter. There is a cross in the window screen. It marks the spot in the Old City where the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is found.
From outside the church, there are additional resting places with outstanding views of the Old City from this vantage point upon the Mount of Olives.
Overall, Dominus Flevit is a nice inclusion to the Mount of Olive attractions but quite a climb which could be challenging and tiring for some."
Brad
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dominus Flevit Church is located on the Mount of Olives. You can reach it by taxi or by taking a bus towards the Mount of Olives. Many visitors combine it with a walk down from the summit, offering incredible views of the Old City.
Yes, Dominus Flevit Church is situated on the Mount of Olives, not far from the Pater Noster Church. It's common for visitors to see both sites during a single excursion to the area.
Many travelers suggest walking down the Mount of Olives, starting from a higher point and making your way towards Dominus Flevit and then descending towards the Garden of Gethsemane. This allows for stunning photo opportunities and a more immersive experience.
While driving is possible, parking on the Mount of Olives can be challenging, especially during busy periods. Taxis or public transport are often more convenient options for reaching the church.
The church itself is generally accessible, but navigating the Mount of Olives can involve uneven terrain and slopes. It's advisable to check specific accessibility details if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Dominus Flevit Church is typically free, as it is a place of worship and pilgrimage. Donations are always appreciated to help with its upkeep.
The church generally follows religious hours and may vary. It's best to check for the most current opening times before your visit, especially if you plan to go on a specific holiday or during religious services.
No, there is usually no entrance fee to visit the Dominus Flevit Church. It's a functioning church open to visitors for prayer and reflection.
While the church is a place of worship, it's advisable to confirm its accessibility on Saturdays, the Jewish Sabbath, as some sites may have altered hours or access.
Visitors are expected to dress modestly and maintain a respectful demeanor within the church premises. Photography may be restricted during services.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside Dominus Flevit Church, but it's crucial to be respectful, especially during prayer times or services. Avoid using flash photography.
The most iconic photo opportunity is through the altar window, capturing the stunning panoramic view of the Old City of Jerusalem. The teardrop architecture of the exterior is also a popular subject.
Yes, you can photograph the mosaic at the altar, which depicts a mother hen gathering her chicks. It's a beautiful and symbolic piece of art.
Late afternoons, during the 'golden hour,' offer beautiful lighting for capturing the church and the city views. Early mornings can also provide soft, diffused light.
Be mindful of other visitors and avoid disruptive photography. If services are in progress, it's best to refrain from taking photos.
🎫 🙏 Spiritual Significance
Dominus Flevit is Latin for 'The Lord Wept.' The church commemorates the moment Jesus wept over Jerusalem, foreseeing its destruction.
The church stands on the traditional site where Jesus wept over Jerusalem. It was designed by Antonio Barluzzi and built over ancient tombs, including ossuaries from the Second Temple period.
The mosaic depicts a mother hen gathering her chicks under her wings, symbolizing Jesus' desire to protect Jerusalem's inhabitants, much like a hen protects her young.
While Dominus Flevit is on the Mount of Olives and significant to Jesus' journey, it is not directly on the traditional path of the Via Dolorosa, which is located within the Old City walls.
The discovery of ossuaries (bone boxes) from the Second Temple Period beneath the church provides archaeological evidence of ancient burial practices in the area, dating back to Jesus' time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider making the visit part of a larger walk on the Mount of Olives, which can be more engaging for younger visitors. The journey down the mount offers plenty of space to move and observe. Ensure children are dressed modestly to respect the religious nature of the site. The archaeological finds, like ancient bone boxes, might also pique the interest of older children with a fascination for history.
🙏 Pilgrims and Religious Visitors
Many pilgrims use this site as a place for prayer and quiet contemplation. The unobstructed view of the Temple Mount from the altar is particularly powerful, connecting the present experience with ancient prophecies. It's a place to pause, reflect on the events of Holy Week, and consider the enduring spiritual significance of Jerusalem.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture and Symbolism
+1The interior also features a striking mosaic above the altar. This artwork depicts a mother hen gathering her chicks under her wings, a powerful biblical metaphor for Jesus' yearning to protect the people of Jerusalem. This imagery, drawn from Matthew 23:37, reinforces the theme of divine compassion and sorrow for the city's fate. The combination of architectural symbolism and evocative artwork makes Dominus Flevit a deeply moving pilgrimage site.
Archaeological Discoveries
The presence of these ancient tombs underscores the deep historical and religious roots of the Mount of Olives. The ossuaries, often intricately decorated, offer insights into the funerary practices and beliefs of the people who lived in Jerusalem millennia ago. For visitors interested in the historical context of biblical narratives, these archaeological findings add a profound dimension to their understanding of the site.
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