Nowhere near as potently packed with pathos as my visit to the Yad Yashem Holocaust Memorial, the time I spent at Jerusalem’s Israel Museum was nonetheless a significant highlight of my trip offering a unique opportunity to infuse my imagination with wonder.
Highlights of the collection at the Israel Museum – the largest cultural institution in the State of Israel and one of the most impressive museums I’ve ever been to – include the oldest known figurine in the world (wow); the Dead Sea Scrolls (whoa); tons (literally) of ancient artefacts dating back millennia with many excavated within miles of the museum; an incredibly detailed scale model of Jerusalem during its Second Temple Period; an Art Garden designed by Isamu Noguchi; a collection of more recent works by great artists along the lines of Henry Moore, Claes Oldenburg, Pablo Picasso, Auguste Rodin … and a whole lot more!
I loved so much of what I got to ogle while there. Especially amazing was the free Archaeology Tour (volunteer guide Bernice Fogel was brilliant!) I joined. It really made the exhibits come alive with relevance and meaning and helped me get to some of the key items on display most expeditiously.
My couple of hours here were not enough. Next time I head to Jerusalem I will make every effort to block at least half a day to explore this incredible place. If you are planning a trip to Jerusalem do not miss the chance to experience the Israel Museum.
The Israel Museum is located at 11 Ruppin Boulevard, Hakyria, near the Knesset (Israeli Parliament). Find out more at imj.org.il/en.
More to come soon in my short series of posts recounting my Jerusalem City Break.
