Location: Madaba
Church of Saint John the Baptist at Bethany Beyond the Jordan was constructed in the Jordan Valley near a traditional site of the baptism of Jesus Christ by Saint John the Baptist. Israeli Yardenit Baptismal site that you might have heard off was actually constructed in the late 20th century. Historically Christians always believed that this was an actual place of baptism of Jesus Christ. Current Greek Orthodox Church was built on top of the ancient chapel of the former monastery that was preserved as a crypt. Church of Saint John the Baptist draws thousands of tourists and pilgrims annually to these sacred places.
Interior of the Church of Saint John the Baptist at Bethany Beyond the Jordan has a longitudinal nave with arches that resemble the barrel. Iconostasis that divides altar of the church with the rest of the temple is made up of 44 icons. Walls of the church are covered by frescoes and floor is covered with mosaics. Local nuns also keep a chest that contain the alleged right hand of Saint John the Baptist.
On a day of Epiphany pilgrims lead a religious procession to the site of the baptism at the Jordan river. It is one of few days of the year when civilians are allowed to reach this sacred famous river. As it serves as a border between Jordan and Israel, it is usually closed to the public.