Historical Context
Understanding Israel's history in terms of its position at the crossroads of ancient empires, its early political movements, and its post-WWII genesis allows students to grasp historical ties to the land and efforts to build and develop a country.
Tower of David
Activity description:
The Tower of David Museum is dedicated to showcasing the diversity of Jerusalem through the central place it holds for the three Abrahamic religions. Take a segway into the Old City of Jerusalem on a thought-provoking tour that explores the behind-the-scenes of Jerusalem’s extraordinary history. Take a unique and in-depth look into the different beliefs, views, narratives, and life experiences of the people of Jerusalem and ask yourself—do worlds meet or collide in Jerusalem? Maybe both? And how can Jerusalem live up to its name as the City of Peace?
Jerusalem’s ancient citadel crowning the city walls, carries a 4000-year story that weaves together the three Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. For the past three decades, the citadel has served as the home of the Tower of David Museum, where its spectacular guard rooms host historical and contemporary exhibitions. Following a vast-scale renewal process, the museum reopened featuring a permanent exhibition that combines original artifacts with state-of-the-art technology and delves into the soul of the city from biblical times to the modern-day State of Israel. Situated on the seamline between the new and old city, it is the ultimate gateway into Jerusalem.
Low
Jerusalem
Dig for a Day
Activity description:
Take part in an official archaeological excavation at the Beit Guvrin Caves. Get your hands dirty uncovering pottery and then crawl through the Maresha cave labyrinth (options for participants with limited mobility are also available).
Dig for a Day takes place in the Beit Guvrin-Maresha National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about an hour’s drive from either Jerusalem or Tel Aviv. The park encompasses the ruins of Maresha, a key Judean town in the First Temple period, and Bet Guvrin, an important town during the Roman era. Various archaeological digs at the site have unearthed a large Jewish cemetery, a Roman-Byzantine amphitheater, a Byzantine church, public baths, mosaics, and burial caves, as well as a wealth of archeological artifacts from various periods.
Medium
Israel/Jaffa
The Temple Mount Sifting Project
Activity description:
Roll up your sleeves and touch the past as you enjoy time in the open air sifting through Temple Mount soil in search of ancient artifacts and treasures.
This unique archaeological endeavor sifts earth that was removed from the Temple Mount in 1999 without archaeological supervision. To date, the project has uncovered hundreds of thousands of important artifacts from the First and Second Temple periods. By identifying and preserving these artifacts, the Sifting Project aims to enhance the understanding of the archaeological history of this ancient and holy site.
The Herzl Museum
Activity description:
Immerse yourself in a spectacular audio-visual program that follows the path of the visionary of the Jewish State and provides important insight into contemporary Jewish identity and Zionism.
This interactive museum is dedicated to the life and ideas of Theodor Herzl, the founder of the modern Zionist movement. It gives visitors an in-depth perspective of early Zionist dreams and inspiration as well as a chance to engage with Herzl's audacious aspirations and turbulent personal journey throughout the various exhibits.
Other
Jerusalem
ANU Museum of the Jewish People
Activity description:
This tour, designed especially for itrek groups, will make you ponder your own identity, origins, and family ties. You will investigate the cross-cultural ties between Jews and their surroundings, and how the Jewish people's DNA influences the modern Israel you encounter on the Israel Trek.
ANU, the Museum of the Jewish People, conveys the fascinating narrative of the Jewish people and the essence of the Jewish culture, faith, purpose, and deed while presenting the contribution of world Jewry to humanity. The story of the Jewish people is a story of constant renewal and the museum celebrates Jewish diversity and adopts an inclusive, pluralistic approach.
Low
Tel Aviv
Neot Kedumim
Activity description:
From Abel to Abraham and Moses to King David, many biblical heroes were shepherds. Learn how they kept their flocks under control and try out your own leadership techniques during a fun session of sheep and goat herding. This active, multi-sensory tour demonstrates the ecological aspects of Jewish traditions and their connection to environmental action today.
Neot Kedumim Biblical Landscape Reserve brings the physical setting of the Bible to life in depth and detail, giving visitors a window into life 3,000 years ago. Located halfway between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, this unique recreation of the biblical landscape provides insight into the values that shaped the Bible and nurtured its rich vocabulary and concepts.
Other
Center