Holy Land Pilgrimage Tour to Dormition Abbey on Mount Zion to commemorate the memory of the Virgin Mary

Dormition Abbey on Mount Zion

With its striking architecture and sacred legacy, Dormition Abbey is one of the most revered Christian landmarks in Jerusalem. Located prominently on Mount Zion, the abbey marks the traditional site where the Virgin Mary fell into her eternal sleep—her “Dormition.” On your Christian Holy Land Tour of Jerusalem, you’ll easily recognize the beautiful circular structure rising above ancient ruins, just steps away from some of Christianity’s most sacred places.

A Place Honoring Mary, the Mother of God

Though Scripture does not describe the death of Mary in detail, early Christian tradition holds that she died peacefully in Jerusalem surrounded by the apostles. The Dormition Abbey commemorates this holy moment of transition from earthly life into heavenly glory.

In the words of the early Church, Mary’s body did not suffer corruption—mirroring the promise of resurrection and eternal life found in Paul’s letter to the Corinthians.

Pilgrimage and Worship at the Abbey

The Benedictine monks who reside at Dormition Abbey warmly welcome Christian pilgrims. As one of the most significant Marian shrines in the Holy Land, it draws believers from around the world who come to reflect on the life and legacy of the Blessed Virgin. Groups visiting the abbey may celebrate the Eucharist in the upper church's choir area—where the monastic community gathers for daily liturgy.

These monks have lived here for more than a century, offering a spiritual presence and engaging in thoughtful discussions and conferences with visiting groups. If you're planning a Christian Holy Land group tour, be sure to contact the abbey in advance to arrange these spiritual experiences.

A Timeline of Faith and Ruins

Though the current Dormition Basilica is just over 100 years old—consecrated in 1910—it stands atop centuries of Christian memory and sacred ruins. When the original site of the Last Supper was destroyed during the Siege of Jerusalem in 70 A.D., a Judeo-Christian synagogue was later established here, known as the “Church of the Apostles.”

By the 4th century, this structure was replaced with a modest church. In the early 5th century, the Byzantines built a grand basilica in its place—only for it to be destroyed during the Persian invasion of 614 A.D. The Crusaders then constructed a larger church in the 12th century called “Santa Maria in Monte Sion.” After Saladin's reconquest in 1187, many Christian sites were again desecrated, and only portions of that Crusader church survive today—beneath the monastery and near the present-day Room of the Last Supper.

From Rubble to Resurrection

In the late 19th century, German Catholics purchased this rubble-strewn plot and began constructing the modern abbey. The cornerstone was laid on October 7, 1898, and by April 1910, Dormition Abbey was consecrated. On its 100th anniversary in 2010, the monks celebrated a century of prayer, reflection, and hospitality.

Pilgrims today can still find two ancient stones near the base of the bell tower—stones traditionally venerated as part of the home where Mary lived and died. Many faithful stop here to pray, reflecting on Luke 1:48: “For behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.”

Nearby Holy Sites on Mount Zion

A visit to Dormition Abbey places you in proximity to several deeply significant Christian sites. Just steps away is the Tomb of King David and the traditional location of the Upper Room, where the Last Supper took place. This makes Mount Zion a spiritually rich destination for pilgrims retracing the final steps of Jesus and honoring the holy figures who shaped the early Church.

Plan Your Pilgrimage

From its spiritual importance to its historical roots, Dormition Abbey is a must-see on any Christian tour to the Holy Land. Don’t miss the opportunity to reflect at this peaceful hilltop sanctuary as you walk the sacred streets of Jerusalem.