Qasr al-Yahud
Baptism Site on the Jordan River

Qasr al-Yahud on the Jordan River is revered as the baptism site of Jesus, a place of faith, renewal, and timeless pilgrimage.

Overview

Located just east of Jericho along the banks of the Jordan River, Qasr al-Yahud is one of Christianity’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. According to tradition, this is the place where John the Baptist baptized Jesus, marking the beginning of His public ministry. The name Qasr al-Yahud (“Castle of the Jews”) reflects its association with biblical stories of the Israelites crossing the Jordan into the Promised Land.

For centuries, pilgrims from around the world have come to immerse themselves in the river’s waters as an act of renewal and spiritual connection. Today, the site is managed by the Palestinian Authority and remains a powerful symbol of faith, memory, and continuity.

Spiritual & Cultural Significance

Qasr al-Yahud is not only a Christian pilgrimage site but also a place of deep interfaith and historical resonance. For Christians, it symbolizes new beginnings and the covenant of baptism. For Jews, it recalls the crossing of the Israelites under Joshua. For Palestinians, it represents a part of their living heritage and a connection to sacred geography that has shaped human history.

The site also holds symbolic importance as a meeting point of faiths and cultures, embodying themes of renewal, crossing, and promise.

Highlights of the Visit

Baptism Traditions: Stand on the banks of the Jordan River at the traditional site of Jesus’s baptism.
Pilgrim Immersion: Many visitors choose to wade into the waters as part of their spiritual journey.
Biblical Setting: Reflect on passages describing Joshua’s crossing and John the Baptist’s ministry.
Sacred Atmosphere: Join international pilgrims in prayers, hymns, and ceremonies that often take place at the site.
Nearby Monasteries: Visit the Monastery of St. John the Baptist and other historic religious landmarks in the Jordan Valley.

Visitor Information

  • Location: Approximately 10 km east of Jericho, near the Jordan River
  • Access: By car or organized pilgrimage tours; parking is available nearby
  • Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm (hours may vary by season)
  • Entrance Fee: Free; modest dress recommended for those entering the water
  • Tips: Bring a change of clothes if you plan to enter the river; mornings are less crowded.