In the heart of Jerusalem

Leaving the Old City through Damascus Gate, you will immediately see an impressive historical building: the Paulushaus Guesthouse. Built 100 years ago by the German Association of the Holy Land, the house has served for most of this time as a pilgrims’ guest house—only interrupted by the period of the British mandate. For many years, pilgrims have appreciated the Paulushaus’s attractive location and its special atmosphere.

Located in the always busy East Jerusalem, Paulushaus Guesthouse is a calm oasis. As soon as you enter the compound you can leave the hectic environment of the bazaar behind. The roof terrace offers an impressive view on the Old City. The house is open to both groups and individual guests.

Hundred years of history

At the end of the 19th century, the German priest Wilhelm Schmidt had the idea of building a guesthouse to accommodate German pilgrims. Supported by the Emperor William II., the German Association of the Holy Land was able to buy the piece of land next to Damascus Gate. The foundation stone was laid in 1904; the building was completed in 1908.

Between 1917 and 1950, Paulushaus served the British mandate authorities as an administrative centre and was only given back to the German Association of the Holy Land when the British left the country. It was then decided to integrate Schmidt’s Girls College into the complex of buildings until the school’s new premises were opened in the 1960s. Since then, Paulushaus has been a guesthouse once more visited by hundred of pilgrims each year.