Ein Kerem: A Day in Jerusalem’s Village

Ein Kerem sits among the forested hills on the western outskirts of Jerusalem. Just a short drive from the city center, it feels like a different, quieter world, and is not to be missed among the attractions in Jerusalem. At the same time, like most of Jerusalem, it is a place filled with history, diverse religious traditions and character. Among the main sites are art galleries, historic churches and nature trails, all walkable from the center of the village, which is served by public transport.

Springs and Nature Walks

At the center of the Ein Kerem village is a spring, nestled under the minaret of an ancient mosque. Called Mary’s Well, it is a tranquil place to visit for anyone. In Chiristan tradition it is believed that a pregnant Virgin Mary drank from this spring, when she came to the village to visit her cousin, Elizabeth, who was pregnant with John the Baptist.

Near this spring, there are several walking and hiking trails that one can spend a few minutes on, or several hours. There are additional springs in the surrounding hills that can be reached by these trails. One of the most popular routes is to walk up the hill, on a combination of stone steps and trails, to the Church of the Visitation, also connected to the Chrisitan tradition of the meeting of Mary and Elizabeth. The hilltop offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The village is also home to several other churches that are open to visitors, including a 19th century Russian Orthodox Church, whose golden domes stand out against a pine-covered hillside. There is also the large Roman Catholic Church of St. John the Baptist.

Artists’ Galleries of Ein Kerem

Another big draw to Ein Kerem is its collection of artists’ galleries. Often doubling as artists’ homes, these galleries are scattered throughout the village. Many are located in stone homes, often built over older archaeological ruins. A decade ago, one local family famously discovered a 2,000 year-old mikveh, or Jewish ritual bath, under their living room floor during a renovation project, revealing more of the long Jewish history in the village.

Artists range from painters to jewelry makers to ceramic-makers. One not-to-miss gallery belong to Ruth Havilio, who makes colorful hand-painted tiles. Many of her designs are inspired by local flowers, plants and birds as well as more traditional Jerusalem patterns and scenes. Painter Yitzhak Greenfield’s studio is another highlight, also open to visitors, and containing paintings from his long career, including scenes of Israel, Jerusaem and kibbutz life. Hadar Kleidman, whose space shares a courtyard with other artisans, specializing in traditional handicrafts. These are just a few of the many galleries and shops.

Each year during the Jewish Sukkoth holiday, usually in September or October, Ein Kerem holds a festival, featuring local artists as well as performing artists. 

Dining and Stained Glass Windows

Among the winding roads where the artists’ galleries and workshops are located, there are a number of restaurants and cafes. From sit-down meals to coffee to ice-cream, there is something for everyone, all within a relatively small area. Hatzer is a kosher dairy restaurant that also offers outdoor seating. Other established restaurants are Karma and Mala Bistro. There are also smaller cafes and ice cream shops along HaMa’ayan Street.

While in Ein Kerem it is also worthwhile to visit the famous stained glass windows in the synagogue of nearby Hadassah Hospital. The windows, created by artist Marc Chagall, reflect scenes from the Biblical stories of Jacob blessing his sons, and Moses blessing his tribes. Visits require advance registration.

FAQ

What to do in Ein Kerem? 

A visit to Ein Kerem should include a stop at Mary’s Well, visits to artists’ studios, historic churches, nature trails and the Chagall Windows at Hadassah Hospital.

How to get to Ein Kerem?

The village of Ein Kerem is served by Bus 28. It is also a short taxi ride from central Jerusalem. There is a paid parking lot on HaMa’ayan Street, as well as free but limited on-street parking.

Is there a kosher restaurant in Ein Kerem?

Yes, Hatzer is a kosher dairy restaurant in Ein Kerem.

When are artists studios open in Ein Kerem?

The hours for each studio vary, but they are generally open daily until the late afternoon. Some may be closed on Saturdays.