Qasr al-Yahud Archaeological Site

Address: Baptismal site on the west bank of the Jordan River near Jericho (approx. 31.8371°N, 35.5465°E)

Hours: Daily; access and opening times vary and are subject to security/administrative restrictions - check local authorities

Qasr al-Yahud is a riverine pilgrimage site on the western bank of the Jordan River traditionally identified as the place of Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist. It lies in the Judaean Desert region near Jericho and has long-standing religious significance for Christian groups.

Pilgrims and tourists encounter designated baptismal pools, fenced access points to the river and small chapels or prayer areas used for ceremonies and liturgies. The site also contains visible archaeological remains from Byzantine and Crusader periods that attest to centuries of pilgrimage.

The location has been venerated since at least the Byzantine era and became an established pilgrimage destination in antiquity; successive periods left church ruins and devotional structures. The site continues to be used for baptismal rites and pilgrimage observances.

Qasr al-Yahud sits on the Jordan River’s western bank in the Judaean Desert near the city of Jericho, in the Jordan Valley.

• Pilgrimage site: The site is located on the Jordan River in the Judaean Desert close to Jericho and is a focal point for Christian pilgrimage and liturgical ceremonies.

What to See#

• Baptismal site: A set of baptismal pools and fenced access areas on the western bank of the Jordan River identified as the traditional location where John the Baptist baptized Jesus; modern facilities support pilgrim visits.
• Byzantine and Crusader remains: Archaeological remains and ruins from Byzantine and Crusader-era structures are present around the site, reflecting centuries of Christian pilgrimage and settlement.

Qasr al‑Yahud (the Baptism site) is on the Jordan River near Jericho and is normally reached by road. From Jerusalem drive east on Route 1 and then south on Route 90 toward Jericho, then follow local signs to the site; the drive is roughly on the order of an hour depending on traffic and checkpoint procedures. Check access and opening rules in advance, as the area is controlled and access can be restricted.

• Plan to visit early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and the busiest pilgrimage hours; security checkpoints and entry queues are usually lighter then.
• Carry your passport/ID and be prepared for security screening at the site entrance - Qasr al‑Yahud is an active religious site with controlled access and checkpoints.
• Walk down to the riverbank rather than only viewing from the visitor center; the riverside area gives a stronger sense of the site and usually has quieter spots for reflection.