Mount Scopus Walking Tour (Self Guided), Jerusalem

Dotted with many sightseeing places, Mount Scopus – translating as the “Observation Mount” from Greek – is a great place to get views over the whole Old City of Jerusalem on a nice day. The mount has been of major strategic importance since Roman times, with forces setting up camp here prior to laying the siege that culminated in the final Roman victory over Jerusalem around 70 AD. Likewise, the Crusaders camped on the mount in 1099 just before taking the city from the Fatimid Caliphate, as did the British after taking it in 1917 from the Ottoman Empire.

The best time to visit is evening, when the sunset will be just in front of you with a magnificent city-view. Passing through the War Cemetery, you’ll reach the sought-after Hebrew University campus with its botanical garden and amphitheater, the latter affording magnificent views over the Judaean Desert as far as the Mountains of Moab. Elsewhere, the top of Mount Scopus gives a good panoramic view over the Mount of Olives, as well as the ramparts and fortified gates of the Old City, with the Dome of the Rock clearly visible.

Make sure to also check the Augusta Victoria compound with a hospital (East Jerusalem’s largest) and a beautiful church. Those who are fit can climb up the many stairs of the tower and look as far as the Dead Sea.

Follow our self-guided walking tour to have a great time in this magical place!