Bethphage in the Bible

Visit Bethphage: The Village of the Donkey and the Beginning of the Palm Sunday Journey

There are two important traditions related to Bethphage, a small village during the time of Jesus, located on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives. This sacred location is most remembered as the place where Jesus instructed two of His disciples to fetch a colt and an ass that He would ride during His triumphal entry into Jerusalem:

Walking in the Footsteps of Jesus on the Mount of Olives

A fascinating walking route in Jerusalem begins atop the Mount of Olives, guiding pilgrims in the footsteps of Jesus during His final entry into the Holy City. This sacred path allows believers to trace the journey of Christ during the last week of His earthly life, from His triumphal entry into Jerusalem to His betrayal, arrest, and crucifixion.

Introduction to St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter’s Basilica (Italian: San Pietro in Vaticano), also known as the New St. Peter’s Basilica, is one of the most iconic and sacred landmarks in the world. Located in the heart of Vatican City, an independent enclave within Rome, it stands as a magnificent symbol of Catholic faith, art, and history. The Basilica was erected on the traditional burial site of St. Peter the Apostle, considered the first Pope. Beneath its main altar rests his tomb, making the basilica not only a place of worship but also a site of pilgrimage for millions of Christians. Today, this masterpiece is a highlight for any Catholic Holy Land tour and the final resting place of many Popes.

Qasr el Yahud: The Historic Baptism Site on the Jordan River

Qasr el Yahud is a baptism site in the Jordan River Valley region of the West Bank, claimed by the State of Palestine and under Israeli occupation. Because of political sensitivities and access restrictions, most Christian pilgrims today choose to visit the more accessible Yardenit Baptismal Site during their Christian escorted tours to Israel. Yet, Qasr el Yahud remains the site most closely linked to the baptism of Jesus Christ, a spiritual moment that forever changed Christian history.