Search
Close this search box.

The Muristan

Touring Jerusalem

Today, the Muristan is a bustling commercial area in the heart of the Old City, with shops, restaurants, and markets filling the narrow streets and alleys. The complex is also home to several important religious sites, including the Church of St. John the Baptist and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, just a short walk away.


Muristan
In This Photo: The Water Fountain at the Muristan and the Tower of the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer

The History of the Muristan

The Muristan has a vibrant history that goes back to the Roman Period. In the 2nd century CE, the Roman Emperor Hadrian decided to destroy Jerusalem and rebuild it as a Roman pagan city – Renaming it Aelia Capitolina. Right where Murustan is today, he built the city’s Forum and an adjacent Temple next to it dedicated to Venus or Jupiter. The remains of that temple are visible and can be accessed from the Alexander Nevsky Church. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is built on the ruins of that Roman temple.


In This Photo: A Map of the Christian Quarter. The Easiest Way is to Park Next to Jaffa Gate at Mamilla Parking Lot and Walk to the Old City
Credit: David Bjorgen, CC BY-SA 1.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Beneath the 2nd-century roman forum, excavations found the “Second City Wall” of Jerusalem from the time of Herod the Great (37 to 4 BCE) described by the Jewish writer Flavius Josephus in the 1st century CE, and thus the question of the correctness of the location of Jesus’ crucifixion site (Calvary) and the Tomb of Jesus. For more info about visiting the remains of the wall, check out the Church of the Redeemer website!


Christian Quarter Ultimate Guide
Christian Quarter Ultimate Guide - Stone of Anointing

According to Roman and Jewish custom at the time of Jesus, this had to be outside the town. It was hoped that excavations in the Muristan would contribute new knowledge. During the construction of the Church of the Redeemer in 1893, a large wall was discovered running in an east-west direction, seemingly the “Second City Wall,” and with it, the proof of the authenticity of the holy places in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.

First Mentionings of the Muristan

The earliest historical mention of the location Muristan was in 600 CE when a certain Abbot Probus was commissioned by Pope Gregory the Great to build a hospital in Jerusalem to treat and care for Christian pilgrims to the Holy Land.


Muristan Sign
In This Photo: Stone of the Memorial in Muristan Street, Marking the Location of the Hospital of the Order of the Knights of St. John.

This hospice was most likely destroyed about fourteen years later when Jerusalem fell to the Persian army, the Christian inhabitants were slaughtered, and their churches and monasteries were destroyed. The building was probably restored after Jerusalem fell again under Byzantine dominion in 629 CE.

Church of St. John the Baptist
Church of Saint John the Baptist
In This Photo: Church of St. John the Baptist In The Muristan

The Knights Hospitaller built the Crusader Church of St. Mary Latina, a hospice, and a hospital in the 12th century. This Christian military order established hospitals throughout the Holy Land to care for sick and injured pilgrims. The hospital in Jerusalem was one of their most important facilities and was a refuge for travelers from Europe and the Middle East. Over time, the hospital expanded to include a range of medical and social services, including a pharmacy, a bakery, and even a stable for the horses of the knights.

The Area in the Modern Period

The Muristan continued to serve as a hospital throughout the centuries, and various religious and cultural groups used it. In the 19th century, the Ottoman Empire took control of the city and converted the Muristan into a market. The market still operates today and sells various goods, including traditional handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. The narrow alleys and colorful stalls of the Muristan provide a glimpse into the vibrant bazaar culture of the Middle East.

Church of the Redeemer 
Church of the Redeemer

Despite its many transformations over the centuries, the Muristan remains an important cultural and historical site in Jerusalem. Its rich history and unique architecture make it a popular destination for tourists and locals. Its continued use as a market ensures that it remains a lively and bustling hub of activity in the city’s heart. Whether you are interested in the history of the Crusades or want to experience the sights and sounds of an authentic Middle Eastern bazaar, the Muristan is worth a visit.

arik-about

Hi! My name is Arik, an Israeli native who dedicated his life to sharing my passion for the Holy Land with those interested in knowing more about this incredible piece of land. I’m the Chief Guide at ‘APT Private Tours in Israel’.

Did you know the Hoopoe is Israel's national bird?! For more cool info about Israel, join our ever growing community and get exclusive travel tips, and giveaways!

Shiloh Excavations In The City Of David

RELATED POSTS

Key Sites in Jerusalem

What are the key sites in Jerusalem you must visit? Well, I compiled the top attractions in Jerusalem when visiting the Holy Land.

Biblical Museum of Natural History

The Biblical Museum of Natural History is showcasing the natural history of the Bible through a collection of live animals and exhibits.

Rothschild Boulevard

Rothschild Boulevard is one of the most important streets in Israel. A must-see site in Israel to visitors that wishes to tour Israel!

Levinsky Food Market

Levinski Food Market is a street with lots of shops selling vegetables, and spices, joined by many restaurants and eateries. Super fun!

Dizengoff Square

Dizengoff Square is in the heart of Tel Aviv on the famous Dizengoff Street, one of the city's main commercial and cultural arteries.

Monastery of the Cross

The Monastery of the Cross is a hidden gem, steeped in history and spirituality, offers a glimpse into the profound faith.

Amud Cave

Amud Cave is a limestone cave located in the Galilee region. The cave is renowned for its archaeological significance and its rich history

Goren Park

Goren Park is a stunning nature reserve offering various activities and attractions. One of the attractions is the view of Montfort Castle.

Tel Beth Yerah

Khirbet Kerak or Beth Yerah is an archaeological tel on the shores of the Sea of Galilee. It contains remains dating 5,000 thousand years ago

Ruhama Badlands

Ruhama Badlands is a nature reserve in the area of ​​Kibbutz Ruhama in the Negev. In Winter and Springtime is covered with flowers in bloom!

Need help?

Skip to content