A short account of the Israel Museum, given by your Israel & Jerusalem private tour guide

The idea of having a national museum in Jerusalem became a reality in the early 1960’s. On the same hill upon which the government buildings, the Parliament (Knesset) and Supreme Court are built, you will also find the Israel Museum, which was opened in 1965.

Al Mansfeld, the architect who was designated for the project, designed the museum as a modular complex that would duplicate the look of an Arab village built on a hilltop.


click on all the photos to open them up

Building the museum as a modular complex proved to be an excellent concept. In recent years, the Israel Museum has gone through extensive renovations that have transformed it into a very modern one. Experts say that the design of the Israel Museum is one of the best in the world in the way that its exhibits are staged.

What are the exhibits that you may find interesting?

There is the main complex in which you will find three wings:

  • Archaeology – presenting the story of the country during the last one-million years, and housing the best archaeological finds in the country.
  • Judaica – presenting a comprehensive and amazing look at Jewish life and culture through all manner of artifacts – from ritual items, dress, necessities of daily living habits, and more.
  • Art – permanent and temporary exhibitions from contemporary to old masters’ art, native art and a sculpture garden.

Other interesting parts of the museum are:

  • The Shrine of the Book – tells the story of the Dead Sea Sect and the scrolls. The exhibit also presents artifacts from the people’s daily life, as well as the scrolls, themselves.
  • A huge model of Jerusalem at the end of the Second Temple period.  

          Did you enjoy your virtual tour?  We can make it come true.

                           Just contact me and we will do it together!