Dormition Abbey, Benedictine abbey on Mount Zion, Israel
Dormition Abbey is a Benedictine monastery on Mount Zion in Jerusalem, Israel. The round stone building with a tall conical roof rises above the surrounding Old City and contains a main pillared hall inside that leads down to a lower level with side chapels.
German Emperor Wilhelm II acquired the land during his pilgrimage to the Holy Land in 1898 and transferred it to a Catholic association. Construction began shortly afterward under the direction of an architect from Cologne and was completed after ten years of work.
The abbey takes its name from the Christian tradition that Mary fell into eternal sleep here before her assumption into heaven. Visitors today see a carved wooden figure of Mary resting in the lower level, surrounded by chapels from different nations that reflect the worldwide interest in this site.
The upper floors offer views over the Old City, while the lower level contains several smaller rooms for quiet reflection. Visitors should note that access to certain areas may be restricted depending on liturgical activities.
A small plaque near the entrance recalls the period between 1948 and 1967 when the building stood directly on the ceasefire line and sustained damage. The monks returned permanently only after the Six-Day War and repaired the war damage to the roof and windows.
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