The Austrian Hospice (“The Austrian Hospice of the Holy Family)

The Austrian Hospice is an impressive hospice for pilgrims, established in 1863. The hospice was built in an important junction at the heart of the Muslim Quarter in the old city, in the intersection between Via Dolorosa and “Hagai” streets, a short walking distance from the Lion’s Gate and the Damascus Gate. The hospice was meant to host crusaders and pilgrims from Austria. In 1869 the Austro Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph the 1^st arrived for a visit, after participating in a ceremony for the opening of the Suez Chanel. In his visit, he inaugurated the hospice and even stayed there. In its early days, the building was 2- stories high. Over the years, many crusaders visited the place, and towards the end of the 19^th century a 3^rd story was added to the building, in order to accommodate the growing numbers of guests. Following the end of World War I, the British confiscated the building. During the British Mandate it served as an orphanage for a number of years. After the Israeli War of Independence (1948 war), the hospice served as a military hospital under Jordanian rule. After the 6- Day War, the building continued to serve as a military hospital, this time by the IDF, until it was returned to the Austrian church in the 80’s, which conducted extensive renovation after years of neglect and destruction. After it was renovated, the building returned to its original role, hosting tourists from Austria and other German- speaking countries. The hospice contains a courtyard with a garden, and also a café with Austrian cuisine. It is possible to ascend (for an entrance fee) to the roof of the building, where you can observe the breath- taking view of the old city and its surroundings.