Mary's Spring — Attraction in Jerusalem

While I trust that this is an authentic site where Mary would have gotten water, I doubt there's much resemblance to the well in the time of Mary! In the late 1800s, a mosque was built above the well, and there's a tall tower topped with the crescent moon & star of Islam. Apparently, little if any sunlight shines directly onto the well, as it's pretty dirty, with green and black algae covering the surfaces of brick where ever water runs Not sure why it's not cleaned up! Ein Kerem means "spring of the vinyard." and sure enough, after leaving this spring and climbing the steep road to Mary's cousin Elzabeth's house, the view is of...

This is the area where Mary came to meet her cousin Elizabeth. It is a quaint little village with churches and mosque you can visit. The Wadi or valley has been restored and there is a very peaceful walk down in amongst the trees. I can imagine this is where Jesus may have spent some time growing up. A pleasant change from the...

Situated in the beautiful village of Ein Carem in Jerusalem, the well is a holy place for Christians. Its surrounded by an old Muslim structure and the water is non drinkable though refreshing for washing face and hands. Worth the stop as part of a tour in the area with its many churches, monstaries, cafes and resturaunts and...