The Knesset

Highlights of the Knesset

While visiting the Knesset it is worth paying special attention to the many orginal art features by Marc Chagall on display. Some of his works are of an impressive size and it is worth taking extra time studying their detail. They depict Biblical motives and Jewish history expressed in the very unique style of the artist, and are made especially for the building. The gate to the Knesset compound was created by the sculptor David Palombo and demands attention with its very impressive design dedicated to the Holocaust.

Background Information

The Knesset building is the home of the Israeli parliament with its 120 members. The present building was given as a gift to the state of Israel by James A. De Rotschild and was inaugurated in 1966, after the move of the parliament from the Froumkin Building on King George St. in downtown Jerusalem. The present building is situated at the Givat Ram hill and is now a part of the Government Complex area housing the main institutions of Israeli government.

Travelujah Tips

Groups must co-ordinate their visit in advance, but individuals can visit at the set times. Please arrive at the Knesset 15 minutes prior to the scheduled time of the tour with a passport or Israeli identity card. One is not permitted to enter the Knesset wearing tank-tops, shorts, or jeans. "Crocs" shoes are not permitted unless they are black or navy. Men may not enter wearing sandals, and women are not permitted to enter wearing belly-shirts.

Nearby Places of Interest

Israel Museum, The Shrine of the Book, Bible Lands Museum, The Wohl Rose Park, The Supreme Court, The Valley of the Cross.

Hours of Operation

Sundays and Thursdays 8.30 to 14.00

The following is the schedule of tours by language:
Hebrew: 9:15, 9:30, 10:15, 11:00, 12:15, 14:00
English: 8:30, 12:00, 13:45
Arabic: 13:00
French: 12:45
Russian: 11:00
Spanish: 10:00
German (recording): 8:30

Free of charge

Useful Links

The Knesset