Trappist Monastery (Latrun), Jerusalem

n 1890, a group of French monks was dispatched to establish a contemplative monastery at Latrun. Acquiring 200 hectares atop the hill, they dedicated the monastery to Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows. Despite challenges, it remains active today.

At the end of the Ottoman era, the Turkish authorities expelled the monastic community, leaving the buildings vacant from 1914 to 1918; however, in 1926, the monks returned and commenced rebuilding efforts. By 1937, the site attained abbey status, and the community flourished, cultivating the land and establishing vineyards. Known as the Silent Monastery, the monks here adhere to a vow of silence, except for those operating the abbey store. Wines, soap, religious mementos, olives, jams, honey, olive oil, and exceptional spices are available at reasonable prices.

Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, the grounds exude beauty and tranquility, making it an ideal spot for an afternoon break. Exploring the grounds, visitors can marvel at the church's magnificent Byzantine ceilings, arches, as well as stained glass windows crafted by the monks themselves. It's remarkable to consider that this serene setting was once the scene of a fierce battle during the Israeli War of Independence in 1948.