Abbey of the Dormition

ISR-2015-Jerusalem-Dormition Abbey

Abbey of the Dormition

Dormition Abbey
File:Dormition Abbey.jpg View of the Abbey of the Dormition
Monastery information
Order	Benedictine
Established	1906
Dedicated to	Dormition of the Mother of God
Diocese	Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem
People
Founder(s)	Kaiser Wilhelm II
Architecture
Status	Active
Architect	Heinrich Renard
Style	Romanesque Revival architecture
Groundbreaking	1900
Completion date	1910

The Abbey of the Dormition (also known as Dormition Abbey) is a Benedictine monastery located on Mount Zion in Jerusalem. It is dedicated to the Dormition of the Mother of God, which commemorates the "falling asleep" (death) of the Virgin Mary.

History

The Abbey of the Dormition was established in 1906 by the German Empire under the patronage of Kaiser Wilhelm II. The site was chosen due to its historical and religious significance, as it is traditionally believed to be the location where the Virgin Mary died.

The construction of the abbey was overseen by the German architect Heinrich Renard, who designed the building in the Romanesque Revival style. The groundbreaking ceremony took place in 1900, and the construction was completed in 1910.

Architecture

The Abbey of the Dormition is noted for its distinctive architectural style, which combines elements of Romanesque and Byzantine architecture. The church features a large central dome, a prominent bell tower, and intricate mosaics depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary.

The interior of the abbey is adorned with beautiful artwork, including a statue of the Virgin Mary in the crypt, which is a focal point for pilgrims and visitors. The crypt also contains the Cenotaph of the Virgin Mary, which is a symbolic representation of her tomb.

Significance

The Abbey of the Dormition holds great religious significance for Christians, particularly for those of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions. It is a major pilgrimage site and a place of worship and reflection.

The abbey is also an important cultural and historical landmark in Jerusalem, attracting tourists and scholars interested in its rich history and architectural beauty.

Present Day

Today, the Abbey of the Dormition continues to be an active Benedictine monastery. It serves as a place of worship, pilgrimage, and community for the Benedictine monks who reside there. The abbey also hosts various religious and cultural events throughout the year.

See also

• Mount Zion
• Virgin Mary
• Benedictine Order
• Romanesque Revival architecture
• Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem