Bethphage, “house of the unripe figs” in Aramaic, is mentioned in the synoptic Gospels as the site where Jesus, before entering Jerusalem, sends his disciples to look for a donkey and a colt upon which he enters the capital city (Mat. 21:1-15).

History of Bethphage

The site of Bethphage is identified on the eastern slopes of the Mount of Olives, east of the old city of Jerusalem. The place is mentioned by pilgrims of the Byzantine period, and sources of the Crusader period describe a church at the site built around a big stone identified and sanctified as the rock Jesus used to step on and sit on the donkey’s back. During Crusader times, a tradition developed of marching in a procession from Bethphage into Jerusalem with palm trees. People whose family name is “Palmer” are believed to be descendants of pilgrims who participated in this ceremony. In 1933, the Franciscans renewed the “Palm Sunday” procession, which is held to this day every year before Easter. In 1954, a new church was also modeled at the site. The Greek Orthodox also constructed a church nearby, elegant in design and proportions.

Visiting the Churches of Bethphage

Both churches are near the security fence, constructed in 2003 due to Arab Palestinian terrorist attacks. The proximity to the security fence may be why only a few pilgrim groups visit the site. A proper Christian pilgrimage visit to Jerusalem, intending to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, should start at that spot. Due to the low number of visitors both churches are not open on regular basis.

For a full appreciation of the site it is recommended to combine it with a guided day tour of Jerusalem.