Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery
The world's oldest Jewish cemetery, a sacred site with graves over 3,000 years old, offering profound history and views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The world's oldest Jewish cemetery, a sacred site with graves over 3,000 years old, offering profound history and views.
"A place of immense historical and spiritual significance, where ancient stones whisper tales of millennia."
🪨 Leave a Stone
Place a small stone on graves to honor the deceased; it's a permanent gesture unlike flowers. :rock:
🚫 No Flowers Please
Avoid leaving flowers as they are temporary. Stones are the traditional and preferred offering.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Gravestones
Throughout the cemetery
Witness millennia of Jewish history etched in stone, with some graves over 3,000 years old.
The Eastern Gate View
Overlooking the Old City
Gaze upon the historic Eastern Gate, a site of prophecy and pilgrimage, with views of the Dome of the Rock.
Tomb of Prophets
Specific section of the cemetery
Pay respects at the resting places of revered prophets, a testament to the cemetery's spiritual importance.
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visitation Etiquette
Understanding the Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🪨 Leave a Stone
Place a small stone on graves to honor the deceased; it's a permanent gesture unlike flowers. :rock:
🚫 No Flowers Please
Avoid leaving flowers as they are temporary. Stones are the traditional and preferred offering. +1
🚶♀️ Respectful Walking
Walk quietly and respectfully. Avoid eating, drinking, or playing music within the cemetery grounds. +1
💧 Hand Washing Station
Many Jewish cemeteries have hand washing stations near the entrance; use them after your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🪨 Leave a Stone
Place a small stone on graves to honor the deceased; it's a permanent gesture unlike flowers. :rock:
🚫 No Flowers Please
Avoid leaving flowers as they are temporary. Stones are the traditional and preferred offering. +1
🚶♀️ Respectful Walking
Walk quietly and respectfully. Avoid eating, drinking, or playing music within the cemetery grounds. +1
💧 Hand Washing Station
Many Jewish cemeteries have hand washing stations near the entrance; use them after your visit.
🧢 Head Covering
While not strictly required for all, covering your head (e.g., with a hat or kippa) is a sign of respect.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery for its profound historical significance and spiritual atmosphere. The ancient gravestones and panoramic views of Jerusalem are highlights. Some find the terrain challenging and note the need for respectful conduct, emphasizing the tradition of leaving stones over flowers.
"One of the impressive things you will see at the Mount of Olives is the Jewish Cemetery which lines the mountain slope. This is a 3000 year old cemetery which has been in use since the time of the First Temple.
An incredibly important site for Jewish people, there are over 70,000 tombs lining the mountain, leaving little space between burials at times. It is an impressive place to stop and reflect even for non-Jewish visitors to the Mount of Olives.
You can see the cemetery up close while walking up the mountain sightseeing churches at the Mount of Olives. You can see it quite well from vantage points in the Old City as well."
Brad
"A very impressive sight and one of historical importance. This is a cemetery which spans thousands of years and is a must-see for anyone visiting Jerusalem."
Dominic Lee
"Amazing how many tombs are here! This is the Valley of Jehosephat where the resurrection will start in the End Times. So this is the place to be brought back first."
pts pts
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The cemetery is accessible by taxi or public bus from central Jerusalem. Many visitors also choose to walk from the Old City, though it's an uphill climb.
Limited street parking may be available, but it can be challenging to find. Taxis and ride-sharing services are often more convenient options.
Yes, it's possible to walk from the Old City, but be prepared for a steep incline. The walk offers scenic views along the way.
Yes, numerous tour operators offer guided visits to the cemetery, providing in-depth historical and religious insights.
For the best light and views, consider visiting in the late afternoon. Taxis or buses are recommended to avoid parking hassles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, entry to the public areas of the cemetery is free. However, some specific tombs or mausoleums might have restricted access or require a guide.
The cemetery is typically open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check specific times closer to your visit, as hours can vary.
There is no general admission fee for walking through the cemetery. Donations are always appreciated to help with its upkeep.
Visiting on Shabbat or Jewish holidays may be restricted or have different hours. It's best to confirm accessibility beforehand.
No advance booking is typically required for individual visitors. However, if you plan to visit with a large group, it's good practice to inform the cemetery administration.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Leaving a small stone on a gravestone is a Jewish tradition symbolizing remembrance and the permanence of the soul, unlike temporary flowers.
Dress modestly, covering your arms and legs. While not always mandatory, a head covering (like a hat or kippa) is considered respectful.
Photography is generally permitted, but always be mindful and respectful of ongoing services or private moments of mourners.
Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the vast cemetery and take in the historical significance and views.
Restrooms and hand-washing stations are usually available near the entrance. It's wise to carry water, especially during warmer months.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views of the Old City and the Eastern Gate are iconic. Look for interesting gravestone patterns and the interplay of light and shadow.
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, casting long shadows and enhancing the textures of the ancient stones.
Be discreet and respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially if people are praying or mourning.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a standard zoom can help with details of the gravestones.
Yes, the cemetery offers excellent vantage points for photographing the historic Eastern Gate and the Old City skyline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The tradition of leaving small stones is often engaging for kids, as it's a tangible way to participate respectfully. Ensure children understand the importance of quiet and respectful behavior throughout the visit. 🙏 Spiritual Seekers & Pilgrims
Many visitors come to connect with their heritage, pay respects to ancestors, or simply absorb the profound spiritual atmosphere. Consider visiting during quieter times to allow for personal reflection and prayer. 📸 Photographers
Be mindful of the cemetery's sacred nature and practice discreet and respectful photography. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of the Mount of Olives Jewish Cemetery
+1 It is traditionally believed to be the location where the resurrection of the dead will commence with the arrival of the Messiah. This belief imbues the site with immense spiritual weight for Jewish people worldwide.Beyond its eschatological importance, the cemetery is the final resting place for countless prominent figures in Jewish history, including prophets, rabbis, and national leaders.
+1 The sheer density of tombs, estimated between 70,000 and 150,000, speaks to its continuous use over millennia. The unique landscape, with its densely packed headstones, offers a powerful visual testament to the enduring legacy of the Jewish people in Jerusalem. For Christians, the Mount of Olives holds significance as the place from which Jesus ascended into heaven and where he prophesied his return.
This shared religious importance makes the Mount of Olives a pilgrimage site for multiple faiths, drawing visitors seeking connection to ancient history and spiritual fulfillment.Traditions and Etiquette for Visitors
When it comes to attire, modesty is key. It's recommended to wear clothing that covers your arms and legs.
After your visit, a significant custom is washing your hands. Many Jewish cemeteries are equipped with hand-washing stations near the entrance for this purpose.
Photography at the Cemetery
Capturing the sheer density of these markers, often packed closely together, tells a visual story of continuous burial and community. The panoramic views of the Old City of Jerusalem, including the iconic Eastern Gate and the Dome of the Rock, are a major draw for photographers.
Visiting during the golden hour, typically late afternoon, can yield dramatic lighting with long shadows that accentuate the contours of the landscape and the gravestones. This time of day often provides a more serene and less crowded experience as well.When photographing, always prioritize respect and discretion. Be mindful of individuals who may be praying or mourning. Avoid intrusive shots and maintain a quiet presence.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit