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Baptism Site – Bethany Beyond the Jordan (Al-Maghtas)
On the eastern bank of the Jordan River lies Al-Maghtas, the holy place where Jesus is believed to have been baptized by John the Baptist. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it carries deep spiritual and historical significance for Christians around the world.
The site features remains of ancient baptismal pools, Byzantine and early Islamic churches, monasteries, and hermit caves carved into the surrounding hills. Visitors can walk along stone steps that once led pilgrims to the river, explore chapels from the 5th and 6th centuries, and sense the sacred atmosphere that has inspired faith for centuries. Today, Al-Maghtas offers a peaceful environment where spirituality, history, and natural beauty come together in harmony.