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Museums

inisrael.com travel guide

Uncovering the History of the Herodian Quarter: A Guide to the Wohl Archaeological Museum in Jerusalem

Address: karaite street, Jerusalem

The Herodian Quarter, also known as the Wohl Archaeological Museum, is a popular tourist destination located in the Old City of Jerusalem. This historical site showcases the remains of a wealthy residential area dating back to the Second Temple period. The Herodian Quarter is an important part of Jerusalem's rich cultural heritage and provides visitors with a unique insight into the lives of the city's ancient inhabitants. In this article, we will discuss the history and significance of the Herodian Quarter and how to make the most of your visit to the Wohl Archaeological Museum. History and Significance The Herodian Quarter was discovered in the late 1960s during excavations conducted by Israeli archaeologist Nahman Avigad. The site covers an area of approximately 2,000 square meters and features the remains of several houses and public buildings that date back to the Second Temple period (516 BCE - 70 CE). The Herodian Quarter is named after King Herod the Great, who ruled Judea from 37 BCE to 4 BCE. It is believed that the residential complex was built by Herod for his high-ranking officials and their families. The Quarter is also significant because it was located in the Upper City, which was the political and social center of Jerusalem during the Second Temple period. The Wohl Archaeological Museum The Herodian Quarter is now open to the public as the Wohl Archaeological Museum. The museum showcases the excavated ruins of several homes and public buildings, including a bathhouse, a ritual bath (mikveh), and a dining room. Visitors can also see ancient household items such as pottery, glassware, and coins, which give insight into the daily life of the residents of the Herodian Quarter. The Wohl Archaeological Museum is located on three different levels, with each level showcasing different parts of the excavation. Visitors start their tour on the highest level, which features a stunning panoramic view of the Old City of Jerusalem. The second level showcases the residential area, including the dining room, living quarters, and bathhouse. The lowest level displays the ritual bath (mikveh) and public buildings, such as a communal kitchen. Tips for Visiting If you plan to visit the Herodian Quarter and the Wohl Archaeological Museum, here are some tips to make the most of your experience: Book your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in long lines. Wear comfortable shoes, as there are many steps to climb. Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of the Old City. Take advantage of the free audio guide, which provides detailed information about the excavations. Allow at least an hour to explore the museum fully. Conclusion The Herodian Quarter and the Wohl Archaeological Museum offer a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the ancient residents of Jerusalem. Visitors can see the remains of homes and public buildings, as well as household items that date back over 2,000 years. With stunning panoramic views of the Old City and a free audio guide, the Herodian Quarter is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Jerusalem's rich cultural heritage.

Old Jaffa Museum

Near Kadumim Square and the Summit Garden in the old city of Jaffa, the Old Jaffa Museum hosts changing exhibitions for the whole family, workshops and activities for kids throughout the year. When visiting the museum with your children, you should also visit the ancient alleys of Old Jaffa, the new Zodiac Fountain, the Bridge of Wishes in Khar Kedumim, a flea market and many restaurants in the area. A unique architectural and historical building houses the museum, Sarya al-Atiqa, the old Ottoman government house. This building was probably originally used as a caravan-sarai hostel, or a khan, at the beginning of the 18th century. There is a pillared hall and a vaulted ceiling in this Ottoman complex built on the remains of a Crusader citadel. Visitors can view changing exhibitions at the museum, which is next to the Kedumim square visitors' center "Photos of Yipayot.". 10 Teilat Mfaretz Shlomo St., Tel Aviv-Yafo Sunday - Thursday: 17:00-10:00, Friday: 14:00-10:00, Saturday: 18:00-10:00 Parking accessible Suitable for children +972-3-6813624

Battalions Museum, Moshav Avihil

The Battalions Museum - "Beit HaGadodim", located at Moshav Avihil near Netanya. The museum is set in an impressively beautiful building, stands at the top of a hill overlooking the Hefer Valley and the Sharon. The museum was founded by the veterans of the Jewish battalions from the First World War and it presents a chain of Jewish heroism and volunteerism."Beit HaGadodim" was inaugurated in 1961 in the presence of veterans of the Hebrew Battalions headed by the President of the State Yitzhak Ben-Zvi and the Prime Minister and Minister of Defense David Ben-Gurion. In 2009, a wing was added to the house, displaying the volunteerism of the Jewish community in the Land of Israel for the British Army in World War II. In 2017, the display of the Hebrew regiments was renewed to mark the centenary year of the regiments. Ben-Gurion Street, Moshav Avihil Telephones: 09-8822212, 09-8629240 Visiting days and hours: Sunday-Thursday: 08:30-15:30. On Fridays - by prior arrangement for groups over 30 people. Saturday: closed. To coordinate tours: 09-8822212

The Steinhardt Museum of Natural History

From a scientific collection of five and a half million items, the museum displays Israel's national natural treasures. Thousands of items are displayed in the museum's exhibitions that tell the story of our natural world, which have been collected over the years. Tel Aviv University's Steinhardt Museum of Nature is committed to inspiring the acquisition of knowledge, understanding and strengthening our connection to nature, and our place within it - for the benefit of future generations. Through creating a unique closeness and interaction with nature that cannot be experienced elsewhere, the museum reveals scientific knowledge (of the research taking place there) and unique perspectives in an experiential, multisensory and fun way. Address: Klausner St 12, Tel Aviv-Yafo

The Air Force Museum, Hazerim

The Air Force Museum "Air Force Nature Reserve" invites you to a tour of the air history trails of the State of Israel. The museum is a national center whose role is to preserve the heritage of the Air Force, research it, present it and instill it, to the Israeli public in general and to future generations of Air Force fighters and soldiers in particular, in order to bring them closer to the Air Force and its heritage while creating affinity and mutual relations between them. The Air Force Museum was established nearly four decades ago, near the Hatzor base. The museum contains a collection of military aircraft, which is one of the most comprehensive and largest in the Western world. The museum is progressive and unique, combining the existing collection of airplanes in an educational-experiential display, which teaches about the development of the Air Force, with entertainment for the whole family. Air Force Museum in the premises Dear visitors, The museum is open to visitors on Sunday-Thursday Between the hours of 9:00-16:30 (cash register closes at 15:30) Entry to the museum is subject to presentation of a valid Israeli ID card/passport.

The Museum for Islamic Art, Jerusalem

The Museum for Islamic Art in Jerusalem: A Window into the Rich Cultural Heritage of the Middle East Jerusalem is a city that has been at the crossroads of many civilizations throughout history. As a result, the city boasts a rich cultural heritage that has been preserved in its museums and historical sites. The Museum for Islamic Art is one such cultural institution that offers visitors a unique window into the artistic and cultural traditions of the Middle East. The Museum for Islamic Art, located in the heart of Jerusalem, is home to a vast collection of Islamic art and artifacts that date back to the 7th century. The collection includes ceramics, textiles, metalwork, and jewelry, among other things. The museum was founded in 1974 by Vera Bryce Salomons, a Dutch philanthropist, and art collector, who was inspired by her travels through the Middle East. The museum building, designed by the architect Alfred Mansfeld, is a work of art in itself. The structure, which was completed in 1974, is a modernist masterpiece that features a unique blend of geometric and organic forms. The building is surrounded by a lush garden that serves as a peaceful oasis in the midst of the bustling city. The museum's permanent collection is organized thematically, with each section highlighting a different aspect of Islamic art and culture. One of the most impressive sections of the collection is the ceramics gallery, which features a stunning array of earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain from across the Islamic world. The collection includes examples of some of the most intricate and beautiful ceramic work ever created, including Persian lusterware, Iznik pottery, and Chinese-inspired blue and white ceramics. Another highlight of the museum's collection is the textiles gallery, which features a wide range of textiles from across the Islamic world. The collection includes silk and cotton fabrics, embroidered garments, and carpets and rugs. The textiles on display showcase the incredible craftsmanship and artistry that went into creating these beautiful objects. The museum's collection of metalwork is also a must-see for visitors. The collection includes a stunning array of decorative objects made of brass, copper, silver, and gold. The metalwork on display includes everything from ornate candlesticks and candelabras to intricately designed jewelry and weaponry. In addition to its permanent collection, the Museum for Islamic Art also hosts a number of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions feature works of art from across the Islamic world and provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage of the region. One of the unique features of the Museum for Islamic Art is its focus on education and outreach. The museum offers a variety of programs and workshops for visitors of all ages, including lectures, guided tours, and hands-on workshops. These programs provide visitors with a deeper understanding of Islamic art and culture and allow them to engage with the museum's collection in a meaningful way. In conclusion, the Museum for Islamic Art in Jerusalem is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of the Middle East. With its impressive collection of Islamic art and artifacts, stunning architecture, and commitment to education and outreach, the museum offers visitors a unique and enriching cultural experience. Whether you're a seasoned art lover or simply looking to learn more about the history and culture of the region, the Museum for Islamic Art is a destination that should not be missed. Address: 2 Hapalmach St, Jerusalem

open: 10:00-15:00