Qasr Al-Yahud - Jesus Baptismal Site

Highlights of Qasr Al Yahud in the Holy Land

This baptismal site is the one with the oldest tradition for being the place where Jesus got baptised by John the Baptist in the Jordan River (Matthew, 3: 13-17). Remains of several churches dating as far back as the 5th Century can be seen at the site, witnessing to the ancient tradition of this being the actual site where Jesus was baptised and started his ministry. It's name in Arabic, Qasr al-Yehud, could possibly be a remnant of an even older tradition of the pre-Christian, Jewish use of the place as a baptismal site. The site is also considred to be the place where the Israelites crossed the Jordan when they enter the land of Canaan.

Touring Qasr Al Yahud

Visitors seeking to tour Qasr Al Yahud can either drive independently (the site is located within Area B (joint control by Israel and the Palestinian Authority) or alternatively, they can hire the services of a private tour guide. None of the regularly scheduled group day tours offered by the major tour operators include Qasr Al Yahud at this time.

A visit to Qasr Al Yahud can easily be combined with Tel Jericho, Mt. of Temptations (both are in the Palestinian Authority areas) as well as St. Georges Monastery and Wadi Kelt, Qumran, Ein Feshka and Bethany.

Qasr Al Yahud and other area Day Tours

Note that since Qasr Al Yahud is not on any of the guaranteed day tour programs it must be visited 'privately' - either on your own or with a hired tour guide. Private day tours to Qasr Al Yahud are recommended and if booked should also include other exciting sites in the area such as Herodium, St. Georges Monastery, Bethany, Ein Feshka, Mt of Temptations and /or the Good Samaritan Museum. These sites are also not on any regularly scheduled day tour programs.

Jericho and Bethlehem Day Tour (offered M,W, Sa)

Privately escorted Jericho Tour (including Qasr El Yahud, St. Georges, Qarantal and the Mt. of Temptations)

Masada, Qumran and Dead Sea (offered daily)

Each year the Orthodox churches celebrate Epiphany at the site of Qasr Al Yahud. This annual festivity is quite grande and attendance is highly recommended.

 Credit: Allaboutjerusalem.com

Background on Qasr Al Yahud in the Holy Land

Upon starting his ministry Jesus got baptised in the Jordan River by John the Baptist, according to the Gospels. This is where the Holy Spirit came upon him while still in the waters, and where God's voice was heard. This site has the oldest tradition of this event, but has not been easily accessible due to political circumstances for a number of years. Now, visitors are again allowed free access to see the excavated remains of the 5th Century churches there, in addition to making use of its baptismal site. The excavations depict beautiful mosaics, as well as ancient marble steps into the water and a very unusual baptismal pool. 

Facilities Available at Qasr Al Yahud in the Holy Land

Qasr Al Yahud is situated within  the Palestinian Territories within Area C, which is currently under the administration of Israeli authorities, yet both Israelis and Palestinians can freely visit this site. All planning  has been done in cooperation with  the Civil Administration of Judea and Samaria, the National Parks Authority and the Jordanian authorities on the other side of the river.

The Israeli Tourism Ministry investment in the site to date totals about 5 million shekel, of which 3.5 million NIS was invested in 2007/8. With further investment by the Ministry of Defense, the total investment to date in developing the Qasr el Yahud site for tourism is 8 million NIS. Plans for future development of the site include wheelchair accessibility, signage, shading, landscaping etc.

Travelujah Tips

The baptismal pool is worth extra attention. Its shape is cruciform and the flowing waters of the Jordan Rivers fills it naturally. The age of the steps leading into it is not known, but were mentioned the first time 1400 years ago. Many of the innumerable pilgrims visiting through the ages carved little crosses into the stone, which can still be seen.

The site is  free of charge to visitors and managed by the Israel Nature and National Parks Protection Authority.

As of July 12, 2011 Qasr El Yahud is now open daily to all visitors.For information 02 650-4844 fax: 02-650-4843 or email ssark@npa.org.il

Nearby Places of Interest

Articles of Interest

Got Questions?