Archived travel story, first published September 18, 2015. This page preserves our earlier account of Jericho and the sycamore tree associated with the story of Zacchaeus. For the tree’s botanical identity, local tradition and current visiting context, read our updated Jericho sycamore fig article.
A town, a tree and the story of Zacchaeus
Jericho lies in the Jordan Valley. Nearby Tell es-Sultan is an archaeological site with evidence of ancient settlement; it is distinct from the living town and the tree discussed in this story. The UNESCO description of Ancient Jericho/Tell es-Sultan explains the archaeological site.
The Gospel of Luke describes Zacchaeus climbing a sycamore tree to see Jesus. Local tradition connects a tree in Jericho with that account. Tradition does not establish that the living tree is the same individual tree from the Biblical story.
\”And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. And behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, who was the chief among the tax collectors, and he was rich. And he sought to see Jesus … but could not because of the crowd, because he was of short stature. And he ran ahead, and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for today I must abide at thy house.\” Luke 19:1-5
What our original story described
Our original account described efforts to bring the tree and its local story into greater public view through a museum development. Those observations belong to the older article. They do not establish the museum’s present opening hours, facilities or access arrangements.
Planning a visit today
Road access, checkpoints and entry requirements can change. Consult current official guidance and confirm local arrangements before making travel plans. As reviewed on October 12, 2026, the U.S. State Department advisory for Israel, the West Bank and Gaza advises reconsidering travel to the West Bank. Our updated sycamore fig article separates botanical facts, local tradition and visiting context.
For another part of our regional journey, see Middle East Adventure: Week One. Read it as a record of that trip rather than a promise of current travel conditions.
Press Release of ExploreTraveler and Nablus
