Visiting Israel: Mount Zion

Mount Zion is located near the southern Zion Gate of the Old City of Jerusalem. Here you will find many important religious and historical sites outside the city’s walls. As you exit the Zion Gate you can walk to King David’s Tomb where it is believed David was buried, however, many people believe he is actually buried in the ancient City of David which is further south.

In the same building you can go upstairs to the Coenaculum where Jesus is said to have sat with his disciples for the Last Supper, but this fact is up for debate as well. In the cellar of the building you will find the Chamber of the Holocaust, a memorial site and museum dedicated to the six million Jewish souls who were killed during the Nazi regime. Both men and women will be required to cover their heads and be dressed modestly to enter the building, so be prepared.

Nearby you will find the Dormition Abbey where Christians believe Mary died. Inside you will find beautiful golden mosaics, religious artwork, and a statue of the Virgin Mary. You can also climb to the top of the tower where you will be able to view the whole of Jerusalem.

You might also find interesting the gravesite of Oskar Schindler, the German businessman made famous by the movie Schindler’s List, who is credited with saving Jewish laborers from certain death during the Holocaust. You can also visit the Mardigan Museum of Armenian Art and History which has a wonderful collection of Armenian and religious artifacts, which is best explorer on a guided tour.