Things to Do at Israel Museum

The Israel Museum in Jerusalem stands as one of the world's leading art and archaeology museums, housing the most comprehensive collection of Israeli and Jewish cultural artifacts. Founded in 1965, this prestigious institution spans 20 acres and features an impressive array of galleries showcasing everything from ancient archaeological finds to contemporary Israeli art. The museum's crown jewel is the Shrine of the Book, which houses the famous Dead Sea Scrolls, making it a pilgrimage site for scholars and visitors from around the globe. Beyond its archaeological treasures, the Israel Museum boasts an extensive collection of fine arts, including works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Rodin, and Chagall, alongside significant pieces of Jewish ceremonial art and ethnographic materials. The museum's outdoor sculpture garden features works by modern masters like Henry Moore and Alexander Calder, while the meticulously crafted Model of Jerusalem in the Second Temple Period provides visitors with a fascinating glimpse into ancient Jerusalem's urban landscape.

The Israel Museum is located in the Givat Ram area of Jerusalem, easily accessible by public transportation. Take bus lines 9, 17, or 24 from the city center, which stop directly at the museum entrance. If driving, the museum provides ample parking facilities. From the Old City, it's about a 15-minute taxi ride or 30-minute bus journey. The museum is also within walking distance of other major Jerusalem attractions like the Knesset and Hebrew University campus.