Russian Convent of the Ascension, Russian Orthodox monastery on Mount of Olives, Jerusalem, Israel
The Russian Convent of the Ascension is an Orthodox monastery on the Mount of Olives with sprawling grounds across multiple levels. The complex includes churches, auxiliary buildings, two cemeteries, and groves of olive and pine trees throughout its site.
The monastery was founded in the 19th century after Archimandrite Antonin Kapustin acquired land that held ancient remains. Excavations revealed old mosaics and tombs that showed the site's long past before becoming a religious center.
The monastery blends neo-Byzantine architecture with medieval Italian design elements visible in its religious buildings and structures. This mix of styles shapes how the place looks and feels when you walk through it.
Visitors should dress modestly and check the limited visiting hours before arriving. It helps to plan ahead since the monastery may close for private events or religious observances during certain times.
The monastery's bell tower holds a five-ton bell cast in Russia and brought to Jerusalem in 1885. This bell makes the tower the tallest religious structure on the Mount of Olives and carries its Russian heritage prominently.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
