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Biblical Significance
The Mount of Olives and The Garden of Gethsemane both hold immense religious significance for Jews and Christians alike, so much so that it became a site of pilgrimage for the early Christians. David’s escape from Jerusalem to Mount of Olives is mentioned in the Old Testament. (2 Samuel 15:30)
The Mount of Olives is repeatedly cited in the New Testament. On his way to Bethany from Jerusalem, Jesus would regularly visit this Mountain and devote ample time here, enlightening his followers with prophecies and teachings. One such prophecy discussed there was the Olivet Prophecy. (Matthew 24-25)
And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west (Zech 14:4).
Furthermore, Jesus spent the night he was betrayed by Judas at the Garden of Gethsemane. He prayed there in such torment as he thought about the terrifying crucifixion to come that an angel was sent from paradise to brace him and “his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.” (Luke 22:24)
Main Attractions
Garden of Gethsemane
It is an enchanted garden situated at the foot of the Mount of Olives and adorned with olive trees that are declared one of the most ancient olive trees to prevail!
Jewish Cemetery (Mount of Olives)
This is one of the most ancient and extensive Jewish cemeteries of the world, with over 150,000 graves buried. Countless influential leaders and rabbis have been buried there
Chapel of the Ascension
This Chapel is constructed on the site believed to be the point where, after his resurrection, Jesus last stepped foot on Earth before ascending to heaven. The Ascension Rock is also present here which contains the right footprint of Jesus.
The chapel was converted into a mosque later. However, at present, it is accessible by people of all faiths.
Augusta Victoria Compound, (Mount of Olives)
This compound is a multipurpose structure consisting of a Church, a hospital and the German Protestant Institute of Archaeology.
Church of the Pater Noster (Mount of Olives)
This church is on top of a grotto where Jesus was believed to have imparted the Lord’s Prayer to his followers. Originally at this site, the Byzantine Church of Eleona was constructed, which was demolished later. The modern church was built by the widow of a French prince and was later modified during the 20th century. Intricately carved ceramic panels inscribed with over 140 translations of the Lord’s Prayer decorate the walls of the church.
Seven Arches Hotel
A highly affordable, luxurious 3-star hotel located on the Mount of Olives with a panoramic view of the Old City of Jerusalem. It has two upscale restaurants with splendid interiors and delectable food.
The religious diversity of this place makes it an ideal destination for individuals exploring different religions as well as the followers of the religions themselves. This site has been the subject of multiple prophecies and significant religious turning points and is definitely worth a visit!
References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mount_of_Olives
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gethsemane
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Samuel+15%3A30&version=KJV