Jacob’s Well – The Meeting Place of Jesus and the Samaritan Woman

One of the most authentic and enduring biblical landmarks in the Holy Land

Overview

Jacob’s Well is one of the most revered and enduring pilgrimage sites in the Holy Land, located within the serene grounds of the Greek Orthodox Church of St. Photini in eastern Nablus. For centuries, Christians have honored this spot as the place where Jesus conversed with the Samaritan woman, offering her the “living water” that symbolizes spiritual renewal. The well itself, hewn deep into the earth and fed by natural springs, is widely regarded as one of the most authentically identified locations mentioned in the New Testament, with its position referenced consistently by early Christian writers, Byzantine pilgrims, and modern archaeologists.

Spiritual & Cultural Significance

Jacob’s Well marks the moment when Jesus offered the “living water,” symbolizing spiritual rebirth and the universal reach of His ministry. The encounter with the Samaritan woman reflects themes of revelation, forgiveness, and the breaking of social barriers. Historically, the well is believed to date back to the patriarch Jacob and has remained a functioning water source for thousands of years. Few places in the Holy Land offer such a seamless link between biblical narrative and physical setting.

Highlights & Experiences

Stand beside the ancient well associated with Jacob and the Samaritan woman.
Explore the beautifully decorated Greek Orthodox church built over the site.
Enjoy a quiet atmosphere ideal for prayer, meditation, and scripture reading.
Learn about the site’s rich history and traditions from clergy or local guides.
On occasion, draw a small amount of water from the well, depending on availability.

Visitor Information

  • Location: Mount Zion, Jerusalem
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00–17:00 (check locally for seasonal variations)
  • Contact: Custody of the Holy Land – +972-2-626-6771
  • Entry: Free
  • Note: The room is plain and minimally furnished; visitors are encouraged to reflect in silence.