Holy Lavra of Saint Sabbas

The monastery structure extends down a cliff in the Kidron Valley, with multiple levels connected by stone staircases and passages.

Saint Sabbas established this religious complex in 484 CE with 5000 monks, creating a center of Eastern Orthodox monasticism.

The monastery maintains strict gender separation rules, permitting only male visitors inside while women observe from a dedicated tower.

The facility operates without modern amenities, relying on candlelight and natural spring water for daily monastic activities.

The site contains a preserved palm tree planted by Saint Sabbas that produces seedless dates, along with his intact remains in a glass case.

Location: Bethlehem

Inception: 5 century

Founders: Saint Savvas the Sanctified

GPS coordinates: 31.70500,35.33100

Latest update: May 26, 2025 21:50