Visit the Site of the Last Supper on Mount Zion in Jerusalem traveling on your Holy Land trip to Israel

The Upper Room: Remembering the Last Supper with Christ

The Cenacle, also known as the Upper Room, is traditionally believed to be the location of the Last Supper—a profound moment in Christian faith described in Luke 22:7-38. You’ll visit this sacred site during your Holy Land Israel trip. Located in Jerusalem on Mount Zion, this two-story structure marks the place where Jesus shared His final meal with His disciples before His crucifixion.

In addition to the Last Supper, the Upper Room is traditionally associated with other key events from the New Testament, including:

• Washing of the Disciples’ Feet – John 13:1–17
• Post-Resurrection Appearance – Luke 24:36–49
• Gathering after the Ascension – Acts 1:13–14
• Election of Saint Matthias – Acts 1:23–26
• Descent of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost – Acts 2:1–4

The Cenacle stands above what is traditionally believed to be the Tomb of King David, and is situated near the Dormition Abbey on Mount Zion.

Historical Significance of the Upper Room

Although the current room dates to the 12th century, it is venerated as being near the original location described in the Gospels. Pilgrims have traveled to the Holy Land for centuries to commemorate the sacred events tied to this site.

Early Christian writer Epiphanius of Salamis refers to a “little Church of God” on Mount Zion, possibly located here. By the 4th century, a formal church was built on this site, known as the “Upper Church of the Apostles,” marking the place of the Pentecost (Acts 2:1–4).

Christian Tradition and the Early Church

In the 5th century, the church became known as “Zion, Mother of All the Churches.” The connection between the Last Supper and Pentecost—both believed to have occurred here—strengthens the site’s traditional identification as the location of the Upper Room described in Acts 1–2 and Luke 22.

Crusader and Franciscan Restorations

During the 12th century, the Crusaders rebuilt the site, integrating it into the Church of St. Mary of Zion. This construction followed the destruction of the earlier Byzantine church during the Persian invasions in 614 and 965.

In the 14th century, the Franciscans restored the site and used it as a monastery. However, in 1524, the Ottoman Empire converted the Upper Room into a mosque. Despite this, Christians continued to honor it as the sacred site of Jesus' final meal and the descent of the Holy Spirit.

Visiting the Upper Room Today

On your Holy Land tour in Israel, you'll find a striking room with Crusader-era arches, pillars, and remnants of 14th-century frescoes. Though mostly empty, it resonates with deep spiritual meaning. Visitors will also see stained-glass Ottoman windows bearing Arabic inscriptions and an ornate mihrab (prayer niche), a remnant of its mosque period.

Two Arabic plaques remain embedded in the walls, and the dome overhead features Christian symbolism—pelicans feeding their young, an emblem of sacrifice and Christ's love for His people.

Additional Sites Nearby

A stairway in the southwest corner leads down to King David’s Tomb, while stairs near the minaret ascend to the rooftop. From there, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Mount of Olives and the Old City of Jerusalem—a perfect setting to reflect on the spiritual legacy of this sacred ground.