Tower of David Museum of the History of Jerusalem
Tower of David Museum of the History of Jerusalem
Tower of David Museum of the History of Jerusalem
4.5
Architectural Buildings • Observation Decks & Towers • History Museums
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9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
Located in the restored ancient Citadel of Jerusalem at the entrance to the Old City, the Tower of David Museum tells the story of the city through history. The exhibition takes the visitor on a journey through 3000 years of history, using models, displays and multi media so that the timeline of the city comes to life. The museum stages temporary exhibitions which integrate the unique location and majesty of the ancient Citadel and its history with a contemporary presentation of artistic and historical issues. It hosts lectures and special musical, educational and cultural events. The 2 night shows, both the Night Spectacular and KING DAVID are world renowned and present Jerusalem's special character and beauty screened in lights, images and music on the ancient walls in the Citadel courtyard. Admission to the unique 360° view point over the old and new city of Jerusalem is 15 NIS only!
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
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4.5
2,224 reviews
Excellent
1,465
Very good
560
Average
157
Poor
31
Terrible
11
MarcusHurley
Bristol, UK9,052 contributions
Dec 2022
Last stop on our Israeli road trip was Jerusalem. We didn't walk a full circuit of the walls although we did a section of it. We also visited the Tower of David Museum and Citadel, located in the Phasael Tower, one of the original towers built by Herod the Great to defend Jerusalem.
The tower was incorporated into the citadel that held out against the Crusaders for 5 weeks before the capture of Jerusalem in 1099. It was then attacked, destroyed and rebuilt several times during the Crusades and the final structure now is largely a result of Mamluk and Ottoman rebuilding.
It was great to wander around and look at the various layers and time periods incorporated in the buildings and ongoing excavations. The best part was the models of the city at various periods so you cold see both the size and layout but also the major buildings.
The tower was incorporated into the citadel that held out against the Crusaders for 5 weeks before the capture of Jerusalem in 1099. It was then attacked, destroyed and rebuilt several times during the Crusades and the final structure now is largely a result of Mamluk and Ottoman rebuilding.
It was great to wander around and look at the various layers and time periods incorporated in the buildings and ongoing excavations. The best part was the models of the city at various periods so you cold see both the size and layout but also the major buildings.
Written 15 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
KodoDrummer
Buenos Aires, Argentina64,756 contributions
Dec 2022 • Solo
Interesting and informative visit using the audio guide provide with the purchased entry ticket. Part of the tower is undergoing repairs/renovations, but touring the tower property, with the guide, gave me a high level understanding of the history and the significance of the tower property over the years.
Written 12 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
tmec12
115 contributions
Dec 2022
The tour is self guided with an audio and map which we didnt really use. You can figure it out yourself as you walk around exploring. The views of temple mount are lovely and there are lots of great viewpoints.
We spent one hour there which was probably too quick, there are lots of steps throughout.
It wasnt too busy so you can explore at your own pace.
We spent one hour there which was probably too quick, there are lots of steps throughout.
It wasnt too busy so you can explore at your own pace.
Written 5 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
IMLady_Marion
United States133 contributions
Nov 2022 • Solo
This night sound and light show projected on the ancient walls of the Citadel is quite a different experience from viewing the Museum during the day. I'd recommend doing both. This is my third time, and I've never ceased to be amazed. Be prepared for cool to cold nights in Jerusalem so dress accordingly. The ticket office sells fleece blankets if that gives you a clue. While the show itself is under an hour, it packs quite a memorable experience. I've seen laser light and sound shows projected on flat and granite walls throughout the world. To see it on ancient walls in Jerusalem is a goosebump inducing experience.
Written 13 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
goodguyjas
London, UK1,111 contributions
Sep 2022 • Solo
On the edge of the old city is the first place I wanted to go to. The brilliant woman at the ticket office was very helpful and explained the renovation work that would affect part of my visit but was happy to pay and also get the audio device to play the commentary. You have to leave a physical deposit like a credit card or driving license etc for the loan. Once inside made for the roof to survey the area. Yes, the tower was scaffolded but the area looked like history still and you can only imagine who has stepped foot here. You are now part of that history. Great views all around and the inner area still transports you back in time. Now there is a restaurant here so tables were setup, which spoiled the look but not end of the world. Lots of places to walk, up and down and along walkways. Felt safe and good footing. Builders and a few places are taken over from the public. But still a good area to see. The Fabulous view of the Temple Mount and the Mount Of Olives area in the distance are a big highlight of the museum. Great pictures. Plus the city in the foreground.
Walked around and you could visit some rooms and also walk to the Kishle lookout. Note you can continue to walk along the battlements and out of the museum. This area is open to the public. So remember to come back if you have the audio guide!
Still great with renovating going on. Amazing feeling being here.
Walked around and you could visit some rooms and also walk to the Kishle lookout. Note you can continue to walk along the battlements and out of the museum. This area is open to the public. So remember to come back if you have the audio guide!
Still great with renovating going on. Amazing feeling being here.
Written 6 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Tah
Singapore373 contributions
Apr 2022
This museum is one of the best historical experiences available in the area. Definitely worth the time and effort to go through. A little physically challenging in some spaces, and it is large, so takes a while to get through, but I always enjoy the effort and always learn something new each time.
Written 11 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
George H
22 contributions
Jul 2022 • Family
Entry to the Citadel (Tower of David) includes two audio tours around the open site but no museum. They are both reasonably informative, despite some thudderingly obvious statements. Highlights include the stunning panoramic view and aluminium models of the site through the ages (including a poignant representation of Golgotha at the time of the second temple). It’s also pretty atmospheric and when we went, delightfully quiet. I’m afraid I couldn’t get very excited about the various walls in the Kishle. It’s worth a visit early on to get your head around the origins of the city but paying the standard ticket price of £40 for 4 adults without the museum seems a bit steep, but that’s Jerusalem for you.
Written 1 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
DayTrip295119
4 contributions
May 2022 • Family
Popped in here to see the light show on Saturday to find out the museum was free that day until 16:30. It is basically open ruins of king herod’s Jerusalem palace and great views of the city, though some of the stairs were challenging for my 70 yr old mom. It was an unexpected pleasure to meander through the ruins with very few people there!
Skip the light show- it’s uninformative, and mildly artistic I guess, but not worth it in my opinion.
Skip the light show- it’s uninformative, and mildly artistic I guess, but not worth it in my opinion.
Written 15 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
I visited this place🇺🇸🇳🇱🇬🇧🇨🇭🇦🇪
Israel13,946 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
PROS
• Amazing history
• Amazing archaeology
CONS
• Signage and explanations
MY EXPERIENCE
“I visited this place” in the summer and did the full adventure of omega zip lines and walking on planks from 10 meters above ground- with the grandchildren. It was unbelievably fantastic, and I don’t need to do it again.
TIPS
From the entrance, keep turning right and going up the steps until you reach the windy flag draped top- for the best view of the entire Old City.
• Amazing history
• Amazing archaeology
CONS
• Signage and explanations
MY EXPERIENCE
“I visited this place” in the summer and did the full adventure of omega zip lines and walking on planks from 10 meters above ground- with the grandchildren. It was unbelievably fantastic, and I don’t need to do it again.
TIPS
From the entrance, keep turning right and going up the steps until you reach the windy flag draped top- for the best view of the entire Old City.
Written 25 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Rock Bar Ibiza
Ibiza Town, Spain31 contributions
Mar 2022 • Family
The streets are clean, indication,street names well explain. Parking under Aroma is 50 sh for all day witch is great. Atmosphere is nice and warm.
Tourism coming back.
We can feel gratitude after a long COVID time.
We family of 2 kids and the trip was safe .
We’ll come back
Tourism coming back.
We can feel gratitude after a long COVID time.
We family of 2 kids and the trip was safe .
We’ll come back
Written 16 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Cristian C
Abbadia San Salvatore, Italy97 contributions
I would like to book an entrance to the citadel and one to the light and sound show, but it doesn't give me the April schedule
Алиса
Balashikha, Russia
Световое шоу в какие дни, в какое время?
Tower of David Museum
Jerusalem District, Israel7 contributions
Times are subject to change according to the season. It is best to follow the accurate times and dates on our website. For the coming season we have showings on Saturday, Monday, Wednesday and Thursday. Please check out our website for exact times and changes. Thank you.
Tricia N
Jerusalem, Israel115 contributions
Are the night light shows available in November?
Tower of David Museum
Jerusalem District, Israel7 contributions
The shows are available all year round.
cleo13
Miami, FL89 contributions
What is the difference between the classic night spectacular and the new king david show? Is it recommended to see both together or pick one ? Also are VIP tix avail for both
Thank you for any info 😄
NevilleNewman
Dallas, TX19 contributions
The original show ("Night Spectacular") is more broadly about Jerusalem, whereas the new show ("King David") is about Elton John. :-) Seriously, these shows might be for you but I was so seriously underwhelmed by the NS show last year that this year I didn't even consider the KD show.
As for the basic facts...
both are 45 minutes long
both cost 65 NIS (or 140 NIS for VIP tix)
both are guaranteed to be cold if you dressed for the daytime
If you haven't found them yet, look up the official promo blurbs on each, from the Tower of David web site:
/en/the-night-spectacular/
/en/the-king-david-show/
In my own opinion, I'd say save the $20-$40 USD and meander across the street to the little museum at Christ Church behind he cafe. Let Moshe or Rodney tell you all about Jerusalem for (at least!) 45 minutes, and then either donate the ticket money there or buy lunch to eat in the cafe courtyard and enjoy a cool quiet hideaway from the crush of commercialism. Again, that's just what I would do.
I hope you have a great trip!
grace1908
Melbourne, FL215 contributions
Did you get advance tickets. Would you recommend getting advance tickets?
Patriklise
Chicago, IL1,471 contributions
You can get tickets on line
Depending when you go I would recommend you getting on line ticket
Ellie R
Asheville, NC
Is there a place to store backpacks at the museum?
Elw12
White Plains, NY57 contributions
It is rare that you can store things at any tourist attraction due to security concerns, so it is best to expect to carry everything wherever you go. As for here in particular, I do not remember there being an area to store personal items.
Olá, meu sonho conhecer israel , não faço ideia do gastos, gostaria de saber quantos vou gastar com viagem saindo de goiânia.
Alfredo G
19 contributions
INA o acomodação mais acessível e o hostel e tem muitos e tel Aviv e Jerusalém
NYbeachmama5
New York City, NY74 contributions
Can we walk inside the citadel without going into the museum? Or do we need a combination ticket? I am asking because my kids won't have a long attention span for the exhibits. we are planning to buy tickets for the Light show. Thank you!
John S
Asheville, NC48 contributions
Yes you can. The museum is on the main level and you can let the kids explore around the citadel while an adult is visiting the museum.
TOWER OF DAVID MUSEUM OF THE HISTORY OF JERUSALEM - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Tower of David Museum of the History of Jerusalem
- Tower of David Museum of the History of Jerusalem is open:
- Fri - Fri 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Sat - Thu 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- We recommend booking Tower of David Museum of the History of Jerusalem tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 9 Tower of David Museum of the History of Jerusalem tours on Tripadvisor
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Tower of David Museum of the History of Jerusalem:
- Private Tour : Tower of David and Jerusalem Old City Quarters (From S$739.85)
- Holy City Tour (From S$538.07)
- A full day tour of the Old city of Jerusalem and the City of David (From S$605.33)
- 1 Day Jerusalem Tour (From S$620.85)
- Full-Day Private and Guided Tour of the Jerusalem's Old City (From S$1,008.88)
- Hotels near Tower of David Museum of the History of Jerusalem:
- (0.02 km) Petra Hotel & Hostel
- (0.07 km) Christ Church Guest House
- (0.11 km) Gloria Hotel
- (0.08 km) New Imperial Hotel
- (0.18 km) Lutheran Guest House
- Restaurants near Tower of David Museum of the History of Jerusalem:
- (0.03 km) Tannour Bakery & Cafe
- (0.04 km) Samara Restaurant
- (0.04 km) Papa De Pizza
- (0.08 km) Versavee
- (0.13 km) Nafoura