Deir Hijleh –
St. Gerasimus Monastery in the Jordan Valley

In Jericho’s center stands the sycamore tree linked to Zacchaeus’s encounter with Jesus, a symbol of faith, humility, and renewal.

Overview

Just a short drive southeast of Jericho, nestled in the Jordan Valley near the Jordan River, stands Deir Hijleh, also known as the Monastery of St. Gerasimus. Founded in the 5th century by St. Gerasimus, a revered ascetic monk, the monastery became one of the most important centers of desert monasticism in Palestine. The site, restored and expanded over centuries, remains a living monastery where Greek Orthodox monks preserve centuries-old traditions.

The monastery’s walls enclose colorful frescoes, icons, and gardens, creating an oasis of spirituality and calm amid the desert landscape. Pilgrims often visit Deir Hijleh on their way to the baptism site at Qasr al-Yahud, as the monastery is closely tied to the region’s sacred geography.

Spiritual & Cultural Significance

Deir Hijleh embodies the spirit of early Christian monasticism, which flourished in the Judean desert during the Byzantine period. St. Gerasimus, the monastery’s founder, is celebrated for his ascetic life and is remembered in Eastern Christian tradition as a protector of pilgrims and monastics.

For Palestinians, the monastery highlights Jericho’s role as a crossroads of spirituality, resilience, and living tradition, where faith communities have endured for centuries despite political and environmental challenges.

Highlights of the Visit

Ancient Monastic Site: Walk through one of the oldest monasteries in the Jordan Valley, founded in the 5th century.
Icons & Frescoes: Admire richly decorated interiors filled with Byzantine-style icons and biblical imagery.
Monastic Life: Experience the quiet devotion of monks who continue to inhabit the monastery.
Pilgrimage Stop: Combine with a visit to nearby Qasr al-Yahud, as many pilgrims do.
Desert Oasis: Enjoy the shaded gardens and olive groves that contrast with the stark surrounding desert.

Visitor Information

  • Location: 7 km southeast of Jericho, near the Jordan River and Qasr al-Yahud
  • Access: Best reached by car or organized tour; often included with baptism site visits
  • Opening Hours: Typically open daily 8:00 am – 4:00 pm (hours may vary for services)
  • Entrance Fee: Free; donations welcome
  • Tips: Modest dress is required; bring water, as the area is very hot in summer