Bethany beyond Jordan

This is considered by many to be the traditional site of Jesus' baptism. It doesn't look like much. It isn't even in the Jordan. Actually, it was, 2,000 years ago. The Jordan flooded regularly to the point that many of the earliest churches built here were damaged or destroyed by floods. In this sort of flood plain, it is expected that a river will change it's course over time.
The 1st picture look down on the actual site. The 2nd picture shows the ruins of some of those flooded out churches.
The 3rd picture looks over a basin with water from the site, some remains of ancient floor mosaics and the stairs down to the site.
The 4th picture is at the edge of the Jordan River as it is today. That is the Palestine Territories on the opposite bank. Both sides of the river are set up for people to be baptized in the river.
The 5th and 6th pictures are in the new Greek Orthodox Church of St. John the Baptist at the site. 5th is the the sanctuary with frescos and icons. Last is a floor mosaic.Læs mere