Religious tourism in Israel, which normally accounts for about 60% of the country's total tourism, has plummeted, leaving many institutions and businesses that depend on these visitors struggling to survive. This is the case at the St. Mary of Nazareth center, operated by the Sisters of Nazareth, which used to host more than 100 pilgrims, but is now empty. Sister Gina, a religious sister from Kerala, India, who resides at the center, expresses concern that she now relies almost exclusively on the help of her congregation to stay afloat.
In other areas of the country, the situation is similar. The 'David's Harp' hotel in Galilee, opened in April 2024 and intended to receive religious tourists, is now mostly occupied by Jewish locals, awaiting the return of pilgrims. Similarly, the recently renovated Tower of David museum in Jerusalem receives mainly Israeli visitors, a reflection of the dramatic change in the profile of tourism since the beginning of the conflict.
Despite this bleak picture, Israeli authorities have continued to promote religious tourism, launching initiatives to attract visitors back to the Holy Land. These include new pilgrimage routes such as the 'Gospel Trail', which follows the footsteps of Jesus from Nazareth to Capernaum, and the 'Way to Jerusalem', inspired by the Camino de Santiago, which seeks to attract both pilgrims and adventurous tourists. However, participation in these projects has been low, as insecurity in the region remains a dominant concern.
The war has not only affected international pilgrims; it has also changed daily life in Israel. The streets of Jerusalem, while relatively quiet compared to areas near the conflict, are now patrolled by an increased police and military presence, adding to a sense of tension and anxiety among residents and the few tourists who still dare to visit.
In the midst of this crisis, some religious communities have maintained their commitment to visit the Holy Land. Groups of Asian and Brazilian pilgrims, especially those belonging to the Neocatechumenal Way, have continued to arrive, although in very small numbers. These visitors, more familiar with the local situation and with contacts on the ground, are more likely to discern security levels and to continue with their pilgrimage plans, despite the warnings.
The economic impact of this crisis is immense. Israel, once heavily dependent on revenue generated by religious tourism, has seen a vital source of income dry up almost completely. This affects not only local businesses and workers in the sector, but also the overall economic stability of the country, which is already facing the costs of a protracted conflict.
Despite the difficulties, there is a strong desire in Israel for the pilgrims to return. Religious leaders, including those from the Latin Patriarchate, are calling on the faithful to return, not only to revitalize the economy, but also to maintain the Christian presence in the Holy Land. According to Maria Ruiz, the arrival of pilgrims is crucial to "normalize ordinary life" and preserve the region's rich religious and cultural heritage.
The war in Gaza has left an indelible mark on religious tourism in Israel, emptying the Holy Places and suffocating an economy that relies heavily on pilgrims. Yet the country continues to await the return of visitors, hoping that peace and stability can restore life and vitality to these holy sites.
