The Cenacle – Room of the Last Supper, Jerusalem

Part of the complex that also hosts the Tomb of David on Mount Zion, the ancient Room of the Last Supper resides on the upper floor of a Gothic structure beneath the Dormition Abbey's shadow. Christian tradition maintains that this space, known as the Cenacle (from the Latin "cenaca", meaning "supper room"), has also witnessed the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the eleven apostles after Easter.

Accessible through a doorway with an Ottoman inscription above it, visitors ascend the stairs to the left upon entry. Though slightly smaller than its depiction in da Vinci's renowned painting, the room's layout, with pillars in the middle, might have posed challenges for Jesus and his disciples to gather around a table. Despite debates over authenticity, the room's beauty and tranquility endure.

Constructed long after Jesus's era, during the Crusader period, its architecture is characterized by distinctive pointed arches. Ironically, however, the most exquisite architectural features bear Islamic influences, reflecting the room's history as a mosque for around 400 years until the establishment of the State of Israel following the 1948 war. Standouts include the small but very ornate mihrab and the impressive stained glass windows with vibrant geometric motifs and delicate Quranic inscriptions.

Tip:
Consider accessing the building's rooftop for beautiful views of the Mount of Olives and the neighboring Dormition Abbey.