St Peter in Gallicantu Jerusalem
A historic hillside church in Jerusalem commemorating Peter's denial of Jesus, built over the site of Caiaphas's palace.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer tour groups
St Peter in Gallicantu Jerusalem
Best Time
Fewer tour groups

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic hillside church in Jerusalem commemorating Peter's denial of Jesus, built over the site of Caiaphas's palace.
"A place of profound biblical significance with breathtaking views, connecting you to ancient Jerusalem."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces and stairs. :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Sacred Space
This is a holy site. Dress modestly and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Church Itself
Main sanctuary
A striking 1931 hillside church with beautiful mosaics and architecture, commemorating Peter's denial.

The Cistern Prison
Underground chambers
Explore the ancient cisterns believed to be where Jesus was held before his trial.

The Rooster Statue
Courtyard
A prominent statue of a rooster, symbolizing Peter's denial before the cock crowed.

View of the Kidron Valley
Terrace
Enjoy panoramic views of the Kidron Valley and the Mount of Olives from the church's terrace.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to St. Peter in Gallicantu
Understanding the Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces and stairs. :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Sacred Space
This is a holy site. Dress modestly and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor. :pray:
Understand the Story
Learn the biblical narrative of Peter's denial before visiting to deepen your experience. :book:
Capture the Views
The views from the terrace are stunning, especially during sunrise or sunset. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces and stairs. :athletic_shoe:
Respect the Sacred Space
This is a holy site. Dress modestly and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor. :pray:
Understand the Story
Learn the biblical narrative of Peter's denial before visiting to deepen your experience. :book:
Capture the Views
The views from the terrace are stunning, especially during sunrise or sunset. :camerawithflash:
Check for Events
Holy Week services or special events might be happening, adding to the atmosphere. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St. Peter in Gallicantu for its profound biblical significance and the moving experience of connecting with the story of Peter's denial. The stunning views from the terrace are a major highlight, offering a beautiful perspective of Jerusalem. Some find the admission fee a bit high, and the underground cisterns can be dimly lit and somewhat challenging to navigate.
"My son and I were blessed to be able to stay at Galicantu during Holy Week in 2023. It was the most profound experience of my life!
It was Holy Week and Passover and Ramadan so everyday was filled with pilgrims and prayers. It was a blessing to be within walking distance of the holiest of Holy places where Jesus walked, suffered, died and rose. The accommodations were comfortable and the people were welcoming and friendly. I can’t recommend highly enough that everyone should visit and walk in His footsteps!"
Elaine O'Connor
"Amazing place, walking the place written in the Bible. Quiet & good for reflection specially today not much tourist coming in Israel. Come and See!"
Benjamin Nepomuceno
"Church of St Peter in Gallicantu
For a number of reasons the Church of St Peter in Gallicantu is one of the most beautiful churches in Jerusalem, it commemorates the apostle Peter’s triple denial of his Master, his immediate repentance and his reconciliation with Christ after his Resurrection. From here you have a stunning view of the Mount of Olives and The Temple Mount A very interesting place to visit. A modern chapel built on ancient foundations. The top two levels have very pretty Byzantine style chapels. The downstairs has a dungeon where Jesus may have been imprisoned before his interrogation by Ciafas. It is also reportedly the place where Peter denied knowing Jesus three times. An amazing experience to be in person. This was the house of Caiaphas. Beneath the house there's a small dark pit where our Lord Jesus was detained overnight before he was crucified the following day. The view from the lower terrace gives perspective of Jesus' journey and the archaeological significance of the site."
Alex Drukpa.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Peter in Gallicantu is located on the eastern slope of Mount Zion. You can reach it by taxi or by walking from the Old City. Many pilgrims walk from the Western Wall or the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, which offers a scenic route through historic Jerusalem. Public buses also serve the Mount Zion area, but check routes and schedules as they can change. :bus:
Yes, public buses do service the Mount Zion area, which is near St. Peter in Gallicantu. However, it's advisable to check the latest bus routes and schedules as they can be subject to change. Walking from the Old City is also a popular and feasible option for many visitors. :bus:
Absolutely! Walking from the Old City, particularly from the Dung Gate or Zion Gate, is a common and rewarding way to reach St. Peter in Gallicantu. The walk offers a chance to soak in the atmosphere of Jerusalem and enjoy the historical surroundings. :walking:
For a day trip, combining a taxi or bus to get close to Mount Zion and then walking the rest of the way is efficient. This allows you to maximize your time exploring the church and its surroundings without the hassle of parking. :car:
Parking directly at the church is limited. It's generally recommended to use public transport or taxis, or to park in designated lots in the city and walk or take a short bus ride to the site. :parking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is typically an admission fee to enter St. Peter in Gallicantu. It's wise to check their official website or inquire locally for the most current ticket prices and any potential discounts. :ticket:
Opening hours can vary seasonally and may be affected by religious holidays. It's best to confirm the current operating hours before your visit, especially if you are planning to go on a specific day or time. :clock:
While generally open, it's advisable to verify operating hours for Sundays and public holidays, as they may differ. Religious holidays, particularly during Holy Week, can see altered schedules or special services. :calendar:
As a sacred religious site, modest dress is required. This means covering shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing clothing to show respect for the religious nature of the church. :dress:
Advance ticket booking might be available, especially during peak tourist seasons or for group visits. Checking their official website or contacting them directly is the best way to find out about advance purchase options. :computer:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The church commemorates the spot where the Apostle Peter denied Jesus three times before the cock crowed, as foretold by Jesus. It's built on the traditional site of the palace of Caiaphas, the high priest, where Jesus was imprisoned. :bible:
Don't miss the beautiful church interior with its mosaics, the underground cisterns where Jesus was held, the courtyard with the rooster statue, and the stunning views from the terrace overlooking the Kidron Valley. :camerawithflash:
Yes, visiting the cisterns is a powerful experience, offering a tangible connection to the events of Jesus' Passion. It's a somber but significant part of the site's history. :historic_site:
Allow at least 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore the church, cisterns, and enjoy the views. If you plan to attend a service or spend more time reflecting, allocate more time. :clock:
Guided tours may be available, often led by knowledgeable guides who can provide deeper insights into the history and biblical significance of the site. Inquire at the entrance or check their website for tour options. :guide_dog:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the church, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions, especially during services. Be mindful of others and avoid using flash if it's disruptive. :camerawithflash:
The terrace offers incredible panoramic views of the Kidron Valley and Mount of Olives. The church's interior mosaics and the courtyard with the rooster statue are also popular photo opportunities. :landscape:
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around religious sites and historical areas in Jerusalem due to security and preservation concerns. It's highly unlikely to be permitted. :noentrysign:
Photography in the cisterns might be limited due to low light conditions and the delicate nature of the underground environment. Always follow any posted signs or instructions from staff. :camerawithflash:
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for both the exterior views and the church's architecture. Early morning can also offer softer light and fewer crowds. :sunriseovermountains:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring snacks and water, as facilities might be limited. Consider focusing on the visual elements like the mosaics and the view to keep younger children interested. The story itself can be simplified for younger audiences, highlighting themes of mistakes and forgiveness. :child:
🙏 Christian Pilgrims
Pilgrimage tips: Consider visiting during Holy Week for an especially moving experience, though be prepared for larger crowds. Many groups organize prayer services or meditations at the site. Understanding the biblical context beforehand will greatly enhance the spiritual impact of your visit. :cross:
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
For history enthusiasts: Take time to explore the archaeological aspects of the site, including the remnants of earlier structures. Learning about the history of the church's construction and its role as a pilgrimage destination will add depth to your visit. :scroll:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Biblical Narrative of St. Peter in Gallicantu
Visitors can explore the underground cisterns that are believed to have served as Jesus' prison. These ancient chambers offer a stark and moving glimpse into the conditions of his confinement. Above ground, the church itself, built in the early 20th century, features beautiful mosaics and architectural elements that tell the story of Peter's denial and subsequent remorse. The courtyard often features a statue of a rooster, a constant reminder of the biblical event.
The spiritual significance of St. Peter in Gallicantu draws pilgrims from around the world. It's a place for reflection on themes of faith, doubt, betrayal, and forgiveness. Many Christian groups visit during Holy Week to participate in services and processions, making the site particularly poignant during this period. The profound connection to these events makes it a must-visit for those interested in the historical and spiritual journey of Christianity.
Exploring the Architecture and Views
The interior of the church is adorned with vibrant mosaics that depict scenes from the Gospels, particularly those related to Peter's denial and Jesus' trial. The main sanctuary is a place of worship and reflection, designed to inspire awe and reverence. Below the church, the ancient cisterns offer a stark contrast, with their rough-hewn stone walls and dimly lit passages, providing a powerful sense of history and the harsh realities of ancient imprisonment.
One of the most memorable aspects of visiting St. Peter in Gallicantu is the spectacular view from its terraces. Overlooking the Kidron Valley and the Mount of Olives, the vista is particularly stunning during sunrise and sunset. This vantage point allows visitors to connect the biblical events with the enduring landscape of Jerusalem, offering a unique perspective on the city's sacred geography.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit