
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Jerusalem, Israel
1. Yad Vashem's Children's Memorial
A poignant tribute to the Jewish children who perished during the Holocaust, symbolized by empty chairs arranged in a moving semi-circle.
- Unique Symbolism: Each chair represents a child, with the date of their birth etched on its back.
- Emotional Impact: The memorial provides visitors an opportunity to reflect on the human cost of the Holocaust.
- Contemporary Art: Designed by renowned artist Dani Karavan, the memorial showcases modern and thought-provoking sculpture.
2. The Dome of the Sacred Ties
An underground railway station that connects Judaism's four religious sects, showcasing a rare display of unity.
- Inter-Denominational Unity: The only place in Jerusalem where all four major Jewish sects share a public space.
- Architectural Marvel: Intricate and symbolic design reflecting the unity of the four religious sects.
- Practical Transportation Hub: Serves as a bustling transport hub for Jerusalem's residents and visitors alike.
3. The David Melech HaMelech Madame Tussauds
A life-size wax museum featuring famous personalities from the past and present, as well as Israeli heroes.
- Cultural Representation: Showcases both international and Israeli cultural figures.
- Interactive Experience: Allows visitors to take photos with lifelike wax figures.
- Iconic Brand: Part of the global Madame Tussauds franchise, offering a unique and fun attraction in Jerusalem.
4. Museum on the Seam
An art museum that explores the complexities of Israeli-Palestinian coexistence through contemporary art exhibits.
- Political Commentary: Provides a platform for artists to express their views on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
- Interactive Gallery: Offers visitors an opportunity to engage with and discuss the artwork on display.
- Community Engagement: Promotes dialogue and understanding between Israelis and Palestinians through art.
5. Monster House
A home decorated with an eclectic mix of pop culture figures, creating a whimsical and surreal atmosphere.
- Artistic Expression: The creation of one man's passion for collecting pop culture memorabilia.
- Unique Attraction: An unconventional stop for those seeking a quirky and colorful experience.
- Nostalgic Appeal: Offers a walk down memory lane for pop culture fans, with figures from various decades on display.
6. The Yitzhak Rabin Center
A museum dedicated to the life and legacy of former Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, including interactive exhibits and historical artifacts.
- Historical Significance: Provides an in-depth look at the life and accomplishments of a key Israeli leader.
- Peace Process Perspective: Explores Rabin's role in the Middle East peace process and its implications today.
- Interactive Experience: Includes interactive exhibits that allow visitors to engage with Rabin's legacy.
7. The Israel Museum's Shrine of the Book
A gallery dedicated to the Dead Sea Scrolls and other ancient Jewish artifacts, including the Aleppo Codex.
- Historical Artifacts: Houses some of the oldest and most significant Jewish texts in the world.
- Archaeological Significance: Offers insights into the history and culture of ancient Jerusalem.
- Innovative Design: Designed to protect the delicate artifacts from light and humidity, while still allowing visitors to view them.
8. The Camel Ride at the Tower of David
A unique experience that combines history with adventure as you ride a camel near the historic Tower of David.
- Historical Context: Takes place near the ancient Tower of David, offering a glimpse into Jerusalem's past.
- Cultural Experience: Provides an opportunity to learn about and interact with camels, an integral part of Middle Eastern culture.
- Photographic Opportunity: Offers a memorable photo opportunity for visitors to capture their camel ride experience.
9. The Jerusalem Biblical Zoo's Nocturnal House
A nighttime exhibit that allows visitors to observe nocturnal animals up close, including the world-famous Jerusalem Syrian brown bears.
- Rare Animal Encounters: Provides an opportunity to view rare and exotic nocturnal animals in a controlled environment.
- Educational Experience: Offers insights into the behavior, habitat, and conservation of nocturnal animals.
- Unique Attraction: One of few zoos in the world to offer a nighttime exhibit dedicated to nocturnal animals.
10. The Israel Museum's Billy Rose Art Garden
An outdoor sculpture garden featuring works by Israeli and international artists, set amidst lush greenery.
- Artistic Diversity: Showcases a wide range of artistic styles and mediums from around the world.
- Natural Setting: Provides a peaceful and serene environment for visitors to appreciate art amidst nature.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers guided tours, lectures, and workshops to enhance visitors' understanding of the sculptures on display.
11. The Mahane Yehuda Market's Colourful Produce Stalls
A bustling market filled with a rainbow of fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices, offering a vibrant and sensory experience.
- Authentic Experience: Provides a glimpse into the daily life and culture of Jerusalem's residents.
- Sensory Overload: Offers visitors an immersive experience filled with sights, smells, and sounds of the market.
- Culinary Delights: Allows visitors to sample a variety of traditional Israeli dishes and snacks.
12. The Jerusalem Biblical Zoo's Biblical-themed Exhibits
An interactive zoo that features animals mentioned in the Bible, providing a unique educational experience.
- Biblical Connection: Offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the animals and stories from the Bible.
- Interactive Experience: Includes exhibits that allow visitors to touch and feed some of the animals.
- Family-friendly Attraction: A fun and engaging attraction for families with children of all ages.
13. The Israel Museum's Model of Ancient Jerusalem
A detailed model of ancient Jerusalem during the Second Temple period, offering a unique perspective on the city's history.
- Historical Insight: Provides a comprehensive and easily understandable representation of ancient Jerusalem.
- Architectural Detail: Includes intricate details, such as temples, palaces, and residential areas.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers guided tours and resources to help visitors better understand the model's significance.
14. The Yad Vashem Holocaust History Museum's Children's Memorial
A poignant tribute to the children who perished during the Holocaust, symbolized by empty chairs arranged in a moving semi-circle.
- Unique Symbolism: Each chair represents a child, with the date of their birth etched on its back.
- Emotional Impact: The memorial provides visitors an opportunity to reflect on the human cost of the Holocaust.
- Contemporary Art: Designed by renowned artist Dani Karavan, the memorial showcases modern and thought-provoking sculpture.
15. The Israel National Knesset's Guided Tour
A behind-the-scenes look at the Israeli parliament, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the country's political process.
- Political Insight: Provides an understanding of the inner workings and history of Israel's government.
- Exclusive Access: Offers visitors access to areas typically not open to the public, such as the Knesset hall and debating rooms.
- Informative Experience: Includes informative guides who share insights into Israel's political landscape.