Cenacle, Religious site on Mount Zion, Jerusalem, Israel
The Cenacle is a Gothic hall with pointed arches and stone columns that support a vault formed by heavy ribs. The chamber occupies the upper story of a multi-level building and appears plain, without stained glass or wall paintings.
The first church on this site was built in the fourth century, with different Christian communities taking charge of the hall over time. After the Ottoman conquest in the 16th century, the building was converted into a mosque and remained closed to Christian visitors for centuries.
The chamber takes its name from the belief that Jesus gathered here with his disciples for a final meal before his crucifixion. Pilgrims from many Christian denominations visit to remember these events and spend time in quiet reflection.
Access is through two separate entrances, depending on which sections of the complex visitors wish to see. Opening hours allow for daily visits, though groups often share the chamber with others and time inside may be limited depending on crowds.
Archaeologists discovered Greek inscriptions beneath the plaster that contain early interpretations of the name of Jesus. These fragments offer insight into how the first Christians thought and wrote about the site and its meaning.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
