Visit Emmaus

Pilgrimage site, museum & monastery

Emmaus-Nicopolis is an archaeological and pilgrimage site with a museum and a small artisanal shop. The brothers and sisters of this catholic community have called it home since 1993, bringing the place to life and maintaining the site.

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Setting out with their whole force,
they came and pitched their camp
near Emmaus in the plain.

1 Maccabees 3:40

Before visiting

Emmaus-Nicopolis is a good destination for an outing. It is next to Canada park at Latrun junction. It is a great place if you are living close by in Modi’in. It is often the last stopover on your way from Jerusalem to the airport in Tel Aviv.

By car

Emmaus is situated at Latrun junction, the entrance is from the highway No. 3.

By bus

From Jerusalem: 

  • Take the Egged bus 430 or 433 to Latrun junction, the bus stop is near the highway bridge. Emmaus is across the road from the bus station.
  • Alternatively, take the Kavim bus 109 to Latrun junction. The bus stop is next to the Emmaus site entrance.


From Tel-Aviv: 

Take a Kavim bus or a train to Modi’in. From Modi’in, take the Kavim bus 885 or the Tnufa bus 118 to Latrun junction, next to the highway bridge. Emmaus is across the road from the bus station. 

You are most welcome to join us for prayers in our chapel.

Saturday:
Lauds 7:30, Mass 12:15

Sunday:
Lauds 9:00, Mass 11:00

Monday–Friday:
Lauds 6:30, Vespers 18:30
Mass is either in the mornings at 6:30 or in the evenings at 18:30. 
Adoration in the chapel is usually from 8:30–12:30 and 15:00–17:00.

It’s also possible to celebrate a private Mass with your group during your Emmaus visit.

The prayer times are subject to change. It’s best to call us upfront to confirm.

Extra services on site

Christian Must-do
Celebrate Mass where Jesus broke the bread​

Follow in the footsteps of the two disciples of Emmaus. Celebrate Mass outdoors in the Byzantine basilica or, in case of bad weather, in the monastery chapel.

Guided tour
Meet a brother or sister of the Beatitudes. Discover Emmaus together.

Groups of ten or more adults can request a guided tour of the archaeological site or a meeting with a member of the Community of the Beatitudes.

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When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Then their
eyes were opened and they recognized him.

Luke 24:30

Emmaus through time​

Emmaus iN the past

From the battle of the Macabees to a Christian pilgrimage site

Excavations

Once buried and brought back to light

Emmaus is for everyone

We welcome visitors from all cultures and religions to discover Emmaus-Nicopolis for themselves and in the context of their background and beliefs.

Souvernirs, jams & much more

Small local shop

Local, home-made products

Variety of icons written by local iconographers

Artisanal ceramic plates and hand-drawn magnets

Our small artisanal shop is not just for buying souvenirs. It is also known by some neighbours as a place to get delicious homemade jams from the monastery for a good price.

Voices of visitors

In Emmaus, I experienced how Jesus walks with me along the way and strengthens, encourages, and heals me through his word—just as he did for the disciples on the road to Emmaus!
Ricarda, 20
From Switzerland
The experience helps bridge the gap between reading the Bible and truly imagining its setting. The connection between geography and Scripture makes the stories easier to visualize.
Sara, 20
From Slovakia

FAq

Ask us anything

Emmaus is for everyone (see above).

Below is an answer from one of our volunteers in response to the question, “Who would you recommend Emmaus to?”

  • People seeking a calm and quiet experience of the Holy Land away from the crowds
  • Individuals interested in silence, reflection, and deeper prayer
  • Travelers looking for a stay focused on prayer rather than typical tourism
  • Those who prefer a convenient location with easy access to the airport, Jerusalem, and Tel Aviv
  • People who are curious about or want to experience the Community of the Beatitudes and its spirituality

Here is an answer from one of our volunteers:

  • Visit the museum to learn about the site’s history and significance.
  • Discover the ancient tomb located in the garden and the basilica.
  • Take time to watch the film to gain a deeper understanding of the place.
  • Spend quiet moments in the chapel to reflect and pray.
  • Walk around and enjoy the beautiful Ayalon Canada Park.
  • Visit the nearby Latrun Monastery.