One of Jerusalem’s most distinguished neighbourhoods, Ein Karem is home to many of Israel’s religious and historical institutions as well as a growing number of trendy bars, eateries and arts venues. Tucked beneath the Jerusalem Mountains and only a 15-minute drive from the city centre, Ein Karem carves its own niche in the culture of modern Jerusalem.
Things to do in Ein Karem
Known as the biblical birthplace of St. John the Baptist and the “Christian Quarter” of Jerusalem, Ein Karem is home to a 5th-century church bearing his name. You can view the church, designed by architect Antonio Barluzzi, as well as other cultural sites such as Notre Dame de Sion Convent, Church of Visitation, Mary’s Well and the gold-petal-domed Al Moskovia Russian Monastery.
With a name meaning “spring of the vineyard”, it’s no surprise that wining and dining are favourite activities in Ein Karem. Restaurants and bars line the main thoroughfares of Ein Karem Street and Maayan Street, many specialising in Moroccan, Mediterranean, Israeli and French cuisine. Visit the small courtyards scattered throughout the neighbourhood to see artists at work creating everything from embroidered textiles to ceramics and hand-crafted gold, pearl and silver jewellery.
Classic music thrives in Ein Karem, especially with chamber music, symphonies and piano recitals at Eden-Tamir Music Center. You can visit many art galleries in the area and stroll to Hadassah Medical Center to view the renowned Chagall Windows, a collection of 12 stained-glass windows illuminated by sunlight streaming through the panels.
Getting around Ein Karem
Ein Karem is a walkable neighbourhood with narrow alleyways connecting the main sites. City buses and taxis traverse primary roads and connect the area to Jerusalem’s city centre. If you choose to drive to Ein Karem, parking is plentiful on streets and in underground parking structures.