Holyland Model of Jerusalem facts for kids
The Holyland Model of Jerusalem is a special model of the Old City of Jerusalem. It shows what Jerusalem looked like during the time of the Second Temple. This was a very important period in history.
The model was first shown in 1966. It was located at the Holyland Hotel in Jerusalem. It was part of a collection of models showing ancient buildings from Israel. In 2006, the model moved to a new home. It is now at the Israel Museum, where many people can visit and learn from it.
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What is the Holyland Model?
The Holyland Model of Jerusalem is a huge, detailed copy of the ancient city. It shows how Jerusalem looked before it was destroyed in 66 CE. The model is built to a scale of 1:50. This means every part of the model is 50 times smaller than the real thing.
It covers an area of nearly 4 acres (16,000 square meters). This makes it one of the largest city models in the world. The model includes tiny buildings, streets, and even the landscape. It helps us imagine what life was like in ancient Jerusalem.
Why was the Model Built?
The model was created by a historian named Michael Avi-Yonah. He used old writings and archaeological finds to make it very accurate. The goal was to help people understand the city's layout. It also shows the famous Second Temple and other important places.
The model helps students and visitors learn about history. It brings the past to life in a way that books cannot. You can see the walls, gates, and houses. You can also see the areas where people lived and worked.
The Second Temple Period
The Second Temple period was a very important time for Jerusalem. The Second Temple was the central place of worship. It was built after the First Temple was destroyed. King Herod the Great made the Second Temple much bigger and more beautiful.
The model shows the Temple as it looked during Herod's time. It was a huge and impressive building. The model also shows the busy markets and homes around the Temple. This helps us understand daily life in ancient Jerusalem.
Moving to the Israel Museum
For many years, the model was at the Holyland Hotel. But in 2006, it was moved to the Israel Museum. This move was a big project. The model had to be carefully taken apart and put back together.
The Israel Museum is a great place for the model. It is a large museum with many historical items. Now, the Holyland Model is near other ancient artifacts. This makes it easier for visitors to learn about Jerusalem's past.
Images for kids
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The Model of Herod's Temple at the Holyland Hotel in 1998. Elevated view from the east.
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