Christian pilgrimage visit the Church of the Visitation during Holy Land tours in Israel

Church of the Visitation – A Sacred Stop on Your Christian Holy Land Tour

A popular Christian pilgrimage destination on a Holy Land tour is the Franciscan Church of the Visitation in Ein Karem, located on the western slopes of Jerusalem. This sacred site commemorates the biblical visit of Mary, the mother of Jesus, to her cousin Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist (Luke 1:39–56).

The Biblical Significance of Ein Karem

According to tradition, Ein Karem was home to Zechariah and Elizabeth. The Gospel of Luke refers to this village as the “city of Juda.” Both women were miraculously pregnant—Elizabeth with John the Baptist and Mary with Jesus. The baby John leaped in Elizabeth’s womb at Mary’s greeting, and she was filled with the Holy Spirit. Mary then remained with Elizabeth for three months until John’s birth. The sacred event gives the Church of the Visitation its name and deep spiritual importance.

“When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: ‘Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?’”

John the Baptist – The Forerunner of Christ

John the Baptist holds great significance in the New Testament. He recognized Jesus as the Messiah and is revered as the “forerunner” of Christ. The Church of the Visitation stands as a tribute to this spiritual connection and prophetic moment. It is the older of two major churches in present-day Ein Karem, a serene, picturesque village known for its stone architecture and biblical legacy.

The Church Through the Ages

The original church is believed to have been built by Empress Helena of Constantinople, who identified the site as the home of Zechariah and the hiding place of the family during King Herod’s massacre. The Crusaders also recognized its significance and constructed a two-story church over ancient ruins. After the Crusaders left the Holy Land, the site fell into disrepair under Muslim control and lay in ruins for centuries.

Holy Sites Within the Church

Inside the church is an ancient cistern said to have provided water to Zechariah and Elizabeth. Tradition holds that a nearby stone hid them from Herod’s soldiers. The upper level of the church is dedicated to Mary and features stunning artwork and frescoes honoring her. The Magnificat—Mary’s song of praise—is engraved in many languages on tiled panels displayed on the church grounds.

Restoration and Modern Design

The Franciscans acquired the property in 1679 and began restoration in 1862. In 1938, work began on the upper level under the direction of Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi, completing the work in 1955. The interiors are beautifully adorned with Italian-style frescoes depicting the Visitation, Zechariah in the temple, and Elizabeth hiding her son John.

A Must-See on Your Christian Pilgrimage

Today, the church is under the care of the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land. Its timeless beauty and spiritual relevance make it a highlight of any Christian Holy Land Tour of Israel. From its biblical history to its magnificent design, the Church of the Visitation continues to inspire pilgrims from around the world.