The Saint Peter Church in Jaffa is highly significant for Christians. It commemorates the life and death of Saint Peter, who is regarded as the first pope in Christian history.
Located in the heart of Old Jaffa on Kedumin Square No.2, the church is a testament to pivotal events associated with Saint Peter. One such event occurred in Jaffa, where Peter had a vision that transformed the dietary laws for Christian believers, allowing them to consume previously forbidden foods.
A notable miracle occurred in Jaffa, where Peter miraculously revived a girl named Tabitha from death. Unlike many other churches, the altar of Saint Peter’s Church faces east, towards Rome, symbolizing Peter’s journey to spread Christianity to the Catholic center of the world.
Visitors can quickly locate the church by following the tall bell tower, which serves as a guiding beacon amidst the historic streets of Old Jaffa.
Main story
Perched overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this church stands as a beacon for pilgrims journeying to the Holy Land via the sea. It is dedicated to the revered Saint Peter, one of Jesus’ twelve apostles.
Legend has it that on a hot day, Peter found respite at the home of Shimon, the Tanner. As hunger crept in, he ascended to the rooftop, where he experienced a perplexing vision. In his dream, he witnessed a boat suspended in the air, laden with kosher and unclean foods. Horrified by the mingling of clean and unclean, Peter protested, declaring that he had never consumed anything impure. Yet, a divine voice reassured him, proclaiming, “What God has cleansed, you must not call common.” This vision recurred three times, leaving Peter bewildered upon awakening.
Shortly after that, messengers from the Roman army were sent by Cornelius, a minister stationed in Caesarea, summoning Peter to him. Reflecting on the dream and the arrival of the messengers, Peter grasped its significance: the teachings of Jesus were not exclusive to the Jews but were meant for all, including the Gentiles. This pivotal realization marked a turning point in the spread of Christianity, signifying its embrace of diversity and inclusion beyond traditional boundaries.
Information
This story is recounted in Acts (10:10-23):
“One day, Peter became hungry and longed for food. While preparing a meal, he fell into a trance. In his vision, he saw heaven open and a large sheet being lowered to earth by its four corners. It contained all sorts of four-legged animals, reptiles, and birds. Then a voice said to him, ‘Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.’
‘No, Lord,’ Peter declared. ‘I have never eaten anything impure or unclean.’
The voice spoke to him a second time, saying, ‘Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.'”
Another well-known story involves a girl named Tabitha:
(Acts 9:36-40) “In the city of Joppa, a disciple named Tabitha was always doing good and helping the poor. One day, she fell ill and died. Her body was washed and placed in an upstairs room. When the disciples in Joppa heard that Peter was nearby in Lydda, they sent two men to him, urging him to come quickly.
Peter went with them, and when he arrived, he was taken to the room where Tabitha’s body lay. The widows Tabitha had helped stood around Peter, showing him the robes and other clothing she had made for them.
Peter sent everyone out of the room, knelt, and prayed. Then he turned to the body and said, ‘Tabitha, get up.’ She opened her eyes and, upon seeing Peter, sat up. Peter took her by the hand and helped her to her feet. He then called for the believers, especially the widows, and presented Tabitha to them alive. This miraculous event spread throughout Joppa, and many believed in the Lord.”
Church Basic Information
Church name: St. Peter Catholic Church
Address: Kikar Kedumim St. 2 Jaffa
Map
Christianity order: Franciscan (Roman-Catholic)
Year of build: 1888-1894
Important History: Built on the remains of a Crusader fortress and an inn for pilgrims in the 16th century
Arrival options
| Bus lines | Bus lines number: 13,15, 44, 46, 54 from Tel-Aviv bus station. |
| Car | You can drive to Jaffa Clock Square and look for parking since it is only a 5-minute walk. Another option is to park next to “Meyumana House” and visit Loui Pester 15. Street and look for parking. Good luck! |
| Taxi | You can drive to Jaffa Clock Square and look for parking since it is only a 5-minute walk. Another option is to park next to “Meyumana House” and visit Loui Pester 15. Street and look for parking. Good luck! |
Arriving information
Accessible for wheelchair
Entrance is free of charge.
Open daily, 09:00-17:00, except for Sundays.
Phone number +972-3-6822667
Toilet – In front of the church, there is a public and accessible toilet
Nearby activities
While in Old Jaffa, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Old Jaffa Museum and delve into the city’s rich history.
Explore the enchanting secret alleys of Old Jaffa, uncovering its hidden treasures as you wander through its ancient streets. For a breathtaking view of the city from above, walk across the street and ascend the stairs next to the public toilets until you reach the hill’s summit. Before you leave, be sure to make a wish for the next zodiac sign, adding a touch of magic to your visit.
The Church style
The church’s architectural style is Baroque, infused with Spanish influences due to its construction aided by the Spanish kingdom. Baroque architecture is characterized by its theatricality, ornate decorations, symmetrical design, and incorporation of classical art elements. These features are evident in the grandeur and intricate detailing of the church’s design, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of both Baroque and Spanish architectural traditions.
My experience
Every time I bring tourists to the church, they are captivated by its architectural style and the compelling story of Saint Peter. They often sit quietly as they enter the church, gazing up at the exquisite wall paintings adorning its interior. They may even witness a Catholic Mass ceremony, adding to the profound experience if they’re fortunate.
Saint Peter’s pivotal role as Jesus’s successor is symbolized within the church by a crown atop two keys, representing the “keys of heaven” entrusted to him by Jesus to carry on his mission.
One notable painting within the church depicts Napoleon, who passed through Jaffa on his expedition to conquer the Land of Israel in 1799. It’s said that Napoleon even lodged overnight in one of the church’s dormitories, adding a fascinating historical dimension to the site.
After exploring the church, visitors can further discover Jaffa’s charms by visiting the Jaffa Clock Tower Information Center. Here, they can obtain a map and explore the area on foot. Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll down David Raziel Street and Yefet Street Junction, soaking in the sights and sounds.
