Euthymius Monastery in the Judean Desert
The Monastery of Saint Euthymius tells the story of monasticism in the Judean Desert in the Byzantine period (4th–7th centuries CE). In the silence of its walls and steps, one can sense the life of simple faith and contemplation that was lived here by the anchorites. The area where the Euthymius Monastery is located was known by the monks at the time as “the desert of the holy city.” This was the place where the heroes and stories of the bible, both the Old & New Testaments, lived and breathed.
History of Euthymius Monastery
The monastery was named after its founder, the Armenian monk Euthymius (337–473 CE), as was the custom at the time. Euthymius is known for his part in the renewal of the monastic movement in the Judean Desert. During his lifetime, the monastery was used by monks living in seclusion, but in 482 it became a cenobitic monastery, which placed importance on living a communal lifestyle. It remained this way until the 12th century Crusades, and in the 13th century, it once again was transformed and became a caravansary. Named Khan al-Ahmar, the caravansary – an inn for travelers – was abandoned during the Ottoman period. Visitors to the ruins of the large monastery can enjoy exploring the entrance gate, central courtyard, burial crypt, monastic rooms, church, caravansary, and water channels.
Make sure to take a moment at the roofed lookout, situated next to a mosaic floor of geometric patterns, to experience a breathtaking panoramic view of the mountains of the Judean Desert. The road where the monastery site is located leads to a huge reservoir that served the inhabitants during various times in history. It’s well worth a visit – and for those with a curious spirit, take the steps to the bottom of the cistern for a truly unique experience.
The site is open to visitors by advance appointment only.
Entrance fees: Adult: NIS 15; child: NIS 7; combined ticket including the Euthymius Monastery and the Good Samaritan Site: Adult: 30; child: 14; group (over 30 people): adult: NIS 14; child NIS 6; tourist multi-site passes accepted. Multi-entry INPA tourist cards can be punched at the site. Israel Nature and Parks Authority subscribers: free.
Guided tours : Guided tours for groups in English or Hebrew may be arranged for a fee, please call 03-7942451 or email: [email protected] t
