🫒 Garden of Gethsemane
Israel
About This Sacred Site
The Garden of Gethsemane, located at the foot of the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, is where Jesus is believed to have prayed in anguish on the night before his arrest and crucifixion. The garden contains eight ancient olive trees that are among the oldest in the world, with some estimated to be over 2,000 years old — potentially alive during Jesus's time. Adjacent to the garden stands the Church of All Nations (Basilica of the Agony), built in 1924 over the rock where Jesus is said to have prayed. The church's dark interior and purple-tinted windows create an atmosphere of sorrow and contemplation. Franciscan monks have tended the garden since the 17th century.
Spiritual Significance
The Garden of Gethsemane, situated at the foot of the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, is revered in Christianity as the place where Jesus prayed the night before his crucifixion, around 30 CE, making it a pivotal location in the Passion narrative as recorded in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. It contains eight ancient olive trees estimated to be over 2,000 years old, believed to be descendants of the trees present during Jesus's time, symbolizing endurance and peace. The name 'Gethsemane' derives from the Aramaic word for 'oil press,' reflecting the garden's historical use and metaphorical significance of pressing and suffering. The Church of All Nations, completed in 1924 and funded by sixteen countries, stands on the site, architecturally designed with twelve domes representing the twelve apostles. Pilgrims engage in contemplative prayer and candlelight vigils here, especially during Holy Week, retracing Jesus's agony and submission to divine will. The garden is a locus for liturgical events, including the Stations of the Cross, emphasizing themes of sacrifice and redemption central to Christian theology.
Key Facts
- •Contains eight olive trees estimated to be over 2,000 years old
- •The name 'Gethsemane' comes from the Aramaic for 'oil press'
- •The Church of All Nations was built by 16 countries, each donating a mosaic dome section
- •The rock where Jesus prayed is preserved inside the Church of All Nations
- •Franciscan monks have been custodians of the garden since the 17th century
Location
Coordinates: 31.7793, 35.2396
Frequently Asked Questions
What religion is Garden of Gethsemane associated with?▾
Garden of Gethsemane is a Christianity holy site located in Israel. It was established c. 30 CE (biblical event), 1924 (current church) and is ranked #163 in our global directory of sacred sites.
When was Garden of Gethsemane established?▾
Garden of Gethsemane dates back to c. 30 CE (biblical event), 1924 (current church). Contains eight olive trees estimated to be over 2,000 years old
How many people visit Garden of Gethsemane each year?▾
Garden of Gethsemane receives approximately 2+ million visitors per year. The name 'Gethsemane' comes from the Aramaic for 'oil press'
What is Garden of Gethsemane known for?▾
The garden where Jesus prayed in agony on the night before his crucifixion. Visitors come seeking peace, forgiveness, meditation, pilgrimage. The Church of All Nations was built by 16 countries, each donating a mosaic dome section
Related Holy Sites
Sacred places connected by country, religion, and purpose
✝️Church of the Holy Sepulchre
The site where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected.
⛪Vatican City (St. Peter's Basilica)
The spiritual center of Roman Catholicism and home of the Pope.
💧Lourdes (Sanctuary of Our Lady)
Where the Virgin Mary appeared 18 times, famous for miraculous healings.
