Located just north of Jerusalem's Old City between Jaffa Road, Shivtei Israel Street, and the Street of the Prophets, the Russian Compound is a historic, 17-acre district rich in heritage and striking Byzantine-influenced architecture. Established between 1860 and 1890 by the Imperial Orthodox Palestine Society to host thousands of Russian pilgrims, it was one of the earliest developments built outside the city walls. Today, this freely accessible enclave seamlessly blends its deep spiritual roots with civic life, housing local municipal offices, courthouses, and the adjacent Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design campus.
When you visit, you will encounter remarkable structures carved entirely out of hewn stone. At the heart of the district stands the magnificent Holy Trinity Cathedral, built in 1872 as the compound's centerpiece. Nearby, you can explore Sergei's Courtyard—a lush, splendid property featuring 25 historically luxurious rooms—and the Museum of Underground Prisoners, housed inside a former British Mandate prison.
From its ancient origins as a strategic military staging ground to its past as a British administrative base and vibrant pub district, the Russian Compound offers you a fascinating window into Jerusalem's evolving history.
What to see at Russian Compound in Jerusalem
- Holy Trinity Cathedral, a magnificent 1872 Byzantine-style landmark
- Sergei's Courtyard, a splendid stone complex featuring historic guest rooms
- Museum of Underground Prisoners, located inside a former British Mandate jail
- Safra Square and the adjacent Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design campus
Visiting tips
Take time to admire the exquisite, fine hewn-stone masonry and Byzantine architecture of the central cathedral and surrounding courtyards while walking the compound.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Early morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Russian Compound in Jerusalem is easy to reach on Jerusalem’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Tower of David and Walls of Jerusalem. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Jerusalem travel guide.
See the full Jerusalem travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.