The remains of the Martyrius Monastery are uniquely situated in a neighborhood of the modern Israeli city of Ma’ale Adumim. Most monasteries built during the same time – mainly in the Byzantine period (4th–7th centuries CE) – stand in the heat and isolation of the Judean desert. Today, the Martyrius Monastery is a historically rich , and silent enclave from the past , in the midst of a bustling city. The monastery reveals the story and lifestyle of the monks who dwelled in the Judean Desert, hinting at an ancient snapshot of their faith and special customs. The silence and isolation of the desert provided the ideal conditions for the monks, and many made their way here and to the nearby Euthymius Monastery. A disciple of Euthymius, Martyrius was born in Cappadocia and founded the monastery in approximately 660 CE. He constructed a water system alongside, impressive in its sophistication for the time. Enjoy a tour of the monastery remains, spreading across some 10 dunams (1 hectare) in a square-shaped structure, including stables, a church, chapel, dining room, cistern, bathhouse, pilgrims’ inn, burial hall, and an Arab farm. In these fascinating ruins , you’ll discover how the monks of that long-ago era lived.
Entrance fees : Free, by appointment only.
Guided tours: Guided tours for groups in English or Hebrew may be arranged for a fee, please call 03-7942451 or email: [email protected]
Learn more about the Dead Sea
For further reading: The story of Lot’s wife
Tagged as: Free Entrance, Good for Kids, Parking
