St. George’s Monastery
The Desert Jewel of Wadi Qelt

St. George’s Monastery in Wadi Qelt is a cliffside desert sanctuary, blending faith, solitude, and breathtaking landscapes near Jericho.

Overview

Carved into the cliffs of Wadi Qelt, St. George’s Monastery is one of the most spectacular and revered monastic sites in Palestine. Founded in the 5th century by hermit monks seeking solitude in the Judean Desert, it was later dedicated to St. George of Koziba. The monastery’s dramatic setting, perched above a desert canyon with flowing streams, has made it a destination for pilgrims, travelers, and seekers of peace for centuries.

Despite its isolation, the monastery remains active, inhabited by Greek Orthodox monks who maintain the sacred site and welcome visitors. Reaching it requires a walk through Wadi Qelt’s striking desert landscape, where the silence and rugged beauty evoke the early spirit of monasticism.

Spiritual & Cultural Significance

St. George’s Monastery is a living witness to the early Christian monastic tradition that flourished in the Judean Desert. Its caves and chapels symbolize prayer, solitude, and resilience in the face of hardship. For pilgrims, it embodies the call to retreat from worldly distractions and seek spiritual renewal.


For Palestinians, Wadi Qelt and the monastery are not only religious sites but also part of the cultural landscape, where desert life and history are intertwined. The monastery’s survival through centuries of conquest and upheaval makes it a symbol of endurance and faith.


Highlights of the Visit

Cliffside Monastery: Explore the monastery’s chapels, courtyards, and cave cells built into sheer rock.
Pilgrim Tradition: Learn about its role in Christian pilgrimage and its association with prophets Elijah and Elisha.
Scenic Walk: Follow the trail through Wadi Qelt, where aqueducts, desert flora, and occasional Bedouin herders bring the landscape to life.
Panoramic Views: From the monastery balconies, take in breathtaking views of the desert stretching toward the Jordan Valley.
Living Monastic Life: Meet the monks who continue centuries of spiritual devotion in this desert sanctuary.

Visitor Information

  • Location: Wadi Qelt, between Jerusalem and Jericho
  • Access: Reachable by car to a nearby parking area, followed by a 20–30 minute walk through the canyon
  • Opening Hours: Typically 9:00 am – 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm (closed Fridays and Sundays afternoon)
  • Entrance Fee: Free, donations welcome
  • Tips: Wear sturdy shoes for the walk; modest clothing is required; mornings are best for cooler temperatures and photography.