The Cremisan Monastery is a beloved spot of families in the Bethlehem area, who seek the spiritual and physical refreshment offered by this beautifully situated spot. Often they are to be seen enjoying picnics and hikes on the wooded grounds. Reached by a long winding road out of the town of Beit Jala, it is set in a terraced landscape scattered with olive trees and offers a panoramic view of the ancient houses of Beit Jala’s Old Core. The monastery was built by Father Belloni as a novitiate for the brothers and priests of the Holy Land. Aside from the lovely physical setting, attractions include the wine cellar with its high-arched ceiling full of casks of aging wine and brandy, which was established in 1885, and adjoining shop, located a few hundred meters beyond the main building.