Austrian Hospice of the Holy Family, Pilgrims' hostel in Via Dolorosa, Jerusalem.
The Austrian Hospice stands at the intersection of Via Dolorosa and El-Wad Street, marking the third station of the Way of the Cross in Jerusalem. The building contains 45 rooms and five dormitories designed to accommodate pilgrims and visitors seeking a simple, faith-focused experience.
The hospice was founded in 1863 and gained prominence when Emperor Franz Joseph I visited in 1869 following the opening ceremony of the Suez Canal. This imperial visit solidified its standing as a diplomatically recognized establishment.
The chapel displays a painting by Leopold Kupelwieser from 1859 showing the Holy Family, along with sculptures of the Adoration of the Magi that give the interior a thoughtful character. These artworks shape how visitors experience the space and set the tone for contemplation.
The hospice is easily accessible from Via Dolorosa and convenient for pilgrims wishing to visit multiple stations of the Way of the Cross. Reserving a room several months in advance is advisable, as the facility is highly popular and spots fill up quickly.
The reception area displays sculptures of the Three Kings, each representing a different continent known during the time of Jesus and symbolizing the global reach of pilgrimage. This artistic choice reflects how the hospice has historically welcomed visitors from many parts of the world.
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