Temples & religious sites
Church of All Nations
Overview
The Church of All Nations is a Catholic church at the base of the Mount of Olives, beside the Garden of Gethsemane. It encloses the bedrock where Jesus is said to have prayed before his arrest. Pilgrims and travellers visit to see this stone and the dark, mosaic-lined interior.
Getting There
From central Jerusalem, the site is accessible on foot, by bus, or by taxi. Walking from the Old City's Lions' Gate down into the valley takes 10 to 15 minutes. Buses and taxis from the city centre take roughly 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic.
Time to Allow
Allow 30 to 45 minutes. This provides adequate time to view the central rock in front of the altar and see the sanctuary interior.
When to Visit
The site gets crowded with tour groups from mid-morning to early afternoon. An early morning visit offers a quieter environment. Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is required.
Nearby Attractions
Several sites can be easily combined on foot:
- Gethsemane (0km): An ancient olive grove directly beside the sanctuary.
- Church of Mary Magdalene (0.1km): A Russian Orthodox church on the hillside above.
- Kidron Valley (0.3km): The historic valley between the Mount of Olives and the Old City.
- Tomb of Absalom (0.3km): An ancient rock-cut monument along the valley floor.
Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors