Bethphage – The Starting Point of Palm Sunday

Village on the Mount of Olives where Jesus began His triumphal entry into Jerusalem

Overview

The village of Bethphage, located on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives, is closely linked to the story of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. According to the Gospels, it was here that Jesus instructed His disciples to find a donkey for Him to ride into the city, fulfilling the prophecy of Zechariah: “See, your king comes to you, gentle and riding on a donkey” (Zechariah 9:9).

Today, the site is marked by the Franciscan Church of Bethphage, built in 1883 on the remains of earlier Crusader and Byzantine structures. Inside, visitors can see a revered stone believed to have been used by Jesus to mount the donkey.

Spiritual & Cultural Significance

Bethphage is especially significant during Palm Sunday celebrations, when thousands of local Christians and pilgrims gather for the annual procession from Bethphage into the Old City of Jerusalem, retracing the route of Jesus’ entry.

The site also serves as a reminder of themes of humility, kingship, and hope, embodied in the image of Christ riding into the city not as a conqueror but as a servant. Its location between Bethany and Jerusalem also ties it to other Gospel narratives, making it a key stop for pilgrims exploring the Mount of Olives.

Highlights & Experiences

Visit the Franciscan Church of Bethphage, decorated with frescoes of the triumphal entry.
See the “Mounting Stone”, associated with Jesus preparing for His entry into Jerusalem.
Join the Palm Sunday procession, a vibrant tradition led by local Christian communities.
Walk the short distance toward Bethany and the Mount of Olives, linking Gospel events.

Visitor Information

Location: Eastern slope of the Mount of Olives, Jerusalem
Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00–12:00 & 14:00–16:30
Contact: Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land – +972-2-628-6771
Entry: Free
Note: Best visited around Palm Sunday, though open year-round for pilgrims and visitors