Benedictine monastery in Abu Ghosh, Benedictine monastery in Abu Ghosh, Israel
The Benedictine monastery in Abu Ghosh features a Romanesque church built directly over Roman ruins. Its interior walls display frescoes from the Crusader period painted in Byzantine style, dating to the 12th century.
The French government acquired the site in 1899 and entrusted it to French Benedictine monks who established the present community. This act preserved the monument and began the modern chapter of monastic life at this location.
Two religious communities of nuns and monks maintain daily prayer services that visitors can observe or join. Their presence and spiritual practice give the monastery a sense of living faith that shapes how the space is used.
Visitors can join daily prayer services or explore the church and its artworks independently. It is best to check opening times in advance since the schedule follows the community's religious calendar.
An ancient spring flows beneath the church foundation, connecting the structure to the region's natural water sources. This underground spring played a role in why this location was chosen for the sanctuary.
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