Mar Saba Monastery Tourism

Mar Saba Monastery, also known as the Holy Lavra of Saint Sabbas the Sanctified, is a Greek Orthodox monastery overlooking the Kidron Valley in the West Bank, near Bethlehem. Established by Saint Sabbas in 439, it is one of the oldest continually inhabited monasteries in the world and holds particular significance in Eastern Christian monasticism. The cliff-hugging complex of buildings with its ancient stone walls and structures appears as though carved straight out of the desert rock; it blends seamlessly with its rugged surroundings. Traditionally, only men are permitted to visit the main compound. Mar Saba's layout includes chapels, living quarters for monks, and numerous hermitages scattered around the site. It has maintained many traditional monastic practices and its library holds a rich collection of texts. Despite its isolation, the monastery is a place of pilgrimage and its fortifications reflect its history of defense against various invaders over the centuries. The Mar Saba Monastery provides a rare glimpse into early Christian monastic life and its stunning location offers awe-inspiring views of the Judean Desert.