Loved the view of the Old City from the tower, and the exhibits are a good overview introduction to the complex history of the city. We went here first on our visit, and it really helped to put everything in context. Not to mention that the setting of the ruins themselves is quite beautiful!
The Tower of David Museum
Tower of David Museum
The Tower of David (also known as David’s Citadel) is one of Jerusalem’s most well-known national heritage sites and it houses important archaeological ruins, dating back almost 3,000 years. Located just by Jaffa Gate, at the entrance to the Old City, this ancient fortress was originally built in the 2nd century BCE to strategically strengthen the city’s defense. It was destroyed and rebuilt repeatedly over the centuries. The citadel offers breathtaking panoramic views of Jerusalem from the tops of ancient towers and turrets. Visit Tower of David Museum and watch how Jerusalem’s history is brought to life with a variety of exhibitions, art installations, tours, cultural events, and activities for all ages.
Audiovisual Night Experiences
- Night Spectacular – 3000 years of history presented in light and sound on the archaeological remains of Jerusalem’s citadel. Meet the city’s many cultures, religions, and rulers. Learn about its secrets and legends and enjoy a truly magical multi-sensory experience.
- King David – Watch King David’s biblical story illuminate the walls and the archaeological excavations of the ancient citadel. Using art, film, and music, this new audiovisual night experience is a groundbreaking cinematic production that tells the timeless story of David as it has never been told before. Be sure to spot great works by Chagall, Matisse, Michelangelo, and others.
Read more about the night spectaculars>>
*Combined tickets for museum daytime visits and the night experiences are available.
*The shows are wheelchair accessible.
King Herod’s Palace – Kishle Excavations
Welcome to Jerusalem’s ultimate time tunnel. Underneath the Kishle building, a former British mandate prison, lies a 450 meter arched structure where it all happened. Start by noticing the high walls of Suleiman the Magnificent; continue to discovering the dye vats from the time of the Crusaders; discover the lost palace of King Herod, which dates back 2000 years ago; and finally, see with your own eyes the remains of Jerusalem’s first fortifications, built by Judean Kings in the First Temple Period – all in one place!
Photo: Noam Chen
Video: Courtesy of Tower of David Museum
3D Virtual Tour by iVisitIsrael
Guided Tours in English
- Guided Tours of King Herod’s Palace and the Kishle Excavations in English leave every Friday at 10:00 am.
- Guided tours of the guardrooms of the ancient citadel in English are available Sunday – Thursday at 11:00 am (included with admission)
TripAdvisor Reviews
Based on 2014 traveler reviews“Excellent introduction to the history of Jerusalem -- plus a great view!”
“Light Spectacular”
The Light Spectacular show at the Tower of David Museum was outstanding. The use of lights in the vast area was amazing. The history of Jerusalem is featured and the use of lighting makes it one of the best light shows I have ever seen. It is well worth the effort...
MoreThe Light Spectacular show at the Tower of David Museum was outstanding. The use of lights in the vast area was amazing. The history of Jerusalem is featured and the use of lighting makes it one of the best light shows I have ever seen. It is well worth the effort to get tickets and be there in the evening to view it. Language doesn't matter because the show is in whatever language the most tourists represents with earphones for other languages.
Less“David where are you?”
Our tour of the tower of David was really interesting. Try to get Helen as a guide. Our tour of the Kishle was nice but not very exciting.