St. George's Monastery

The Monastery of Saint George of Choziba, also known as Monastery of Choziba or Mar Jaris, is a monastery located in Wadi Qelt in Area C, Jericho Governorate, West Bank, Palestine. The cliff-hanging complex, which emerged from a lavra established in the 420s and reorganised as a monastery around AD 500, with its ancient chapel and irrigated gardens, is active and inhabited by Greek Orthodox monks. It houses the relics of Saint George of Choziba, after whom the monastery is named, as well as the relics of Saint John of Choziba (420/450–520/530) and those of Saint John of Choziba the Romanian (1913–1960).

Its historical story is also significant: the cliff-hanging complex, which emerged from a lavra established in the 420s and reorganised as a monastery around AD 500, with its ancient chapel and irrigated gardens, is active and inhabited by Greek Orthodox monks. Its historical story is also significant: established during the Byzantine period near Jericho, it was destroyed by the Persians in AD 614, rebuilt in the 12th century during the Crusader period, abandoned...

Among its defining features, the monastery is reached by a pedestrian bridge across Wadi Qelt, which many believe to be Psalm 23's "valley of the shadow of death". Among its defining features, the valley parallels the old Roman road to Jericho, the backdrop for the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:29–37).

Experiences depend on season, access and available guides. Sightseeing, photography and locally organised activities are typical starting points; confirm availability before travel.

Check current access, fees, transport, safety and opening arrangements with the official operator or a trusted local source. Conditions can change with weather and management decisions.