Overview
The Church of the Annunciation, also known as the Basilica of the Annunciation, is a Catholic church located in Nazareth, Israel. It is the largest Christian church in the Middle East and is built over the site where it is believed the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary to announce the birth of Jesus.
The church commemorates the Annunciation, a key event in Christian theology, and is a major pilgrimage site for Christians.
Location
Address
Al-Bishara St. 12, Nazareth, Israel
Neighborhood: Old City
Coordinates
32.702600, 35.297600
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • spring flowers
- • outdoor events
summer
hot
- • long daylight hours
autumn
warm to cool
- • fall colors
- • harvest festivals
winter
cool to cold
- • Christmas decorations
- • holiday lights
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Dress modestly
- Respect religious services
- Check opening hours
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: low to moderate
- • stairs
- • crowds
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit/debit cards
Currency
New Israeli Shekel (NIS)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered), comfortable shoes for walking, closed-toe shoes, shorts, sleeveless tops, inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • 1 week
- • official website or trusted third-party platforms
- • 48 hours
- • available for guided tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Nazareth Guide
Size: 45 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, History
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Upper Basilica
Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafe
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)
Distance: 120 km
Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
From City Center
Distance: 1 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic and religious significance, cultural pride
Historical Significance: Site of the Annunciation, major pilgrimage destination
Insider Tips
- Free entry for all visitors
- Best views from the upper basilica
- Local restaurants offer authentic Arab cuisine
Local Recommendations
- • Try local Arab cuisine at nearby restaurants
- • Visit Mary's Well
- • Explore the Old City market
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Hebrew, Arabic, English, Italian, Spanish, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle for architectural details
Result: Great shot of the church facade
Upper Basilica
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Wide angle for interior details
Result: Stunning view of the upper basilica
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Mary's Well
Distance: 200m
Walking: 3 min
Type: Historical Site
Nazareth Village
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Museum
Mount Precipice
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Scenic Viewpoint
St. Joseph's Church
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Religious Site
Old City Market
Distance: 400m
Walking: 6 min
Type: Market
Reviews
Based on 850 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit early for fewer crowds"
- "Dress modestly"
- "Explore the courtyard"
- "Try local food nearby"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
46
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
850
Adult Entry
Free