The Mount of Olives is a family run hotel situated at the summit of this historic mountain. The hotel was built in 1960 around the home of the Khweis family which is presently used as the Internet Cafe. Renovations to restore this centuries old room are scheduled for next year. In addition, the hotel also has a pleasant sitting and dining room which seats over 80 people at one setting. All 61 rooms have bath and / or showers, a telephone, and comfortable beds. The hotel can accommodate groups of over 100 guests.
The majority of customers are pilgrims who come to be near the areas where Jesus lived. There are many churches and holy sites around the hotel commemorating the historic events of the Bible. These include the Chapel of the Ascension, the Garden of Gethsemene, the Tomb of the Virgin Mary, the Pater Noster Church, the Tomb of the Prophets, Dominus Flevit, and the spectacular Russian Orthodox Church of Saint Mary Magdalene with its seven golden cupolas making it one of Jerusalem's most distinctive landmarks.
The hotel is situated atop the highest point in Jerusalem. As a result, approximately eleven of its rooms command a dramatic view of the Old City. Indeed, it is fair to say that the Mount of Olives Hotel has the single best view of Jerusalem from any vantage point in the city. The most popular room is 317-318 which is surrounded by large glass windows. Past visitors have described their stay in this adjoining room as "a remarkable spiritual experience, as though you are sleeping in a helicopter overlooking the Dome of the Rock."
Public transportation to and from Damascus Gate runs daily until approximately 5:00 p.m. Afterwards, it is possible to either walk or take a private taxi for about $7.00 depending on the guest's negotiation skills with the driver. A walk to the Old City is a very pleasant experience though most visitors generally prefer to walk down the hill than up.
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Telephone #: +972 (2) 628-4877
Facsimile #: +972 (2) 626-4427
