Treasures of the Citadel

During Sukkot, come discover the Treasures of the Citadel!

Hidden among the ancient stones and towers are stories thousands of years old. For five days, the whole family can embark on a journey through time. Following the people who built the Citadel and lived here – discover the secrets they left behind.

A full day of fun awaits you:

A full day of fun awaits you! Enjoy puzzle games and challenges, a creative workshop inspired by ancient coins, an archery workshop, ancient musical instruments, and story time featuring a Jerusalem monster. Join guided tours, climb the tower turret, and discover more surprises. Our sukkah will also be open to everyone next to Hamigdal Café. We’re waiting for you 🤍

Activity Stations:

✧ The Citadel Mystery: A Puzzle and Challenge Game Throughout the Citadel

Young investigators – we invite you to solve the mystery of the Citadel. Pick up a research kit equipped with a measuring tape, magnifying glass, secret-code key, and map. Set off on a journey following the builders of the Citadel. Along the way, search for clues, decode messages, and complete challenges until you crack the mystery.
Starting point: Olive Tree
Starts every half hour: 10:15am, 10:45am, 11:15am, 11:45am, 12:15pm, 12:45pm, 1:15pm, 1:45pm, 2:15pm, 2:45pm, 3:15pm, 3:45pm
Suitable for ages 6+

✧ Coins from the Past: Creative Workshop

We’ll discover the ancient coins on display in the Museum-coins that inspired the currency we all carry in our wallets today. Using clay and gold- or silver-colored metal foil, children will create their own coin of choice, complete with a magnet.
Location: Roni Hall
All ages

✧ Theatrical Story Time: Michael and the Monster

Many people don’t know that beloved Israeli author Meir Shalev wrote his children’s book Michael and the Monster to celebrate the opening of the Tower of David Museum in 1989. Come meet Michael’s “Shnaurir”-the monster that has lived in the city for thousands of years and is made entirely of Jerusalem stone slabs. Along the way, you’ll also meet the rulers who built Jerusalem, from King David to the present day.
Actress: Idit Moldovan
Location: Gallery 7
Times: 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm, 4:30pm

✧ Wandering Sounds – With Ancient Instruments

An interactive musical workshop exploring when and where ancient musical instruments originated. How did they traveled between cultures? How can they be recreated today using recycled materials found in every home?
Led by musician Idan Sklar
Location: Spice Garden
Times: 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:00pm
All ages

✧ Archers at the Citadel

What does it feel like to be an archer at the Citadel? Children will have the opportunity to try their hand at shooting real bows and arrows. They will learn how to aim, draw the string, and shoot at a target with a large wooden bow-right where the guards and archers who defended the Citadel once stood.
Location: Herod’s Garden
All ages

✧ Following in the Footsteps of the Pilgrims

A guided tour through the Citadel and galleries, following in the footsteps of pilgrims. We’ll learn about the traditions of pilgrimage during Sukkot and the Temple in Jerusalem. We will hear about King Herod’s building projects on the Temple Mount and at the Citadel. We will then climb the Phasael Tower, the highest observation point in the Old City.
Tour meeting point: Near the main stage
Tours depart every half hour. First tour at 10:00am, last tour at 4:30pm
Tour duration: approximately 40 minutes
Suitable for ages 5+

✧ Dress Up in History: Costume Station

Kings and queens, knights and ladies, pilgrims, and a host of other characters from the past are waiting for you at our costume station. Choose a character, dress up, and step into history for a moment-and of course, take a photo against the backdrop of the ancient Citadel.
All ages

✧ Climb the Tower of David minaret

You’re invited to climb the stairs to the Citadel’s famous turret. Take a magical pause and breathe deeply while enjoying an extraordinary view of both the Old and New City.
Suitable for ages 5+, additional fee of NIS 15

To purchase Minaret tickets, [click here] or scan the barcode:

The Tower’s sukkah is open to everyone, next to Hamigdal Café hamigdal

Happy Sukkot! 🌿
Advance registration required; places are limited