Biblical Zoo | Jerusalem

Information
Landmark: Biblical Zoo
City: Jerusalem
Country: Israel
Continent: Asia

Biblical Zoo, Jerusalem, Israel, Asia

The Tisch Family Zoological Gardens, commonly known as the Biblical Zoo, is a 62-acre wildlife park located in the Malha valley of southwest Jerusalem. It specifically focuses on preserving and displaying animal species mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, as well as participating in international breeding programs for endangered species.

Visual Characteristics

The zoo is designed around a central artificial lake fed by a series of tiered pools and waterfalls. The landscape features open-air habitats that utilize natural stone moats and vegetation-covered berms instead of traditional metal cages. Architectural elements include a two-story visitor center shaped like a wooden boat, referencing Noah’s Ark, which is constructed from timber and glass.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is situated at 1 Derech Aharon Shulov, approximately 7 kilometers from Jerusalem’s city center. It is directly accessible via the Israel Railways Biblical Zoo station, located 200 meters from the entrance. Bus lines 26a, 33, and 92 provide regular service to the zoo gates. A large, free asphalt parking lot is available on-site for private vehicles.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Founded in 1928 by zoologist Aharon Shulov on Harav Kook Street, the zoo moved through multiple locations, including Mount Scopus, before opening at its current Malha site in 1993. The landscape was designed by Miller-Blum & Associates to mimic the natural topography of the Judean Hills, incorporating indigenous flora and recycled water systems for its aquatic features.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can utilize a motorized circular train that traverses the upper and lower levels of the park. Specific activities include animal feedings led by keepers at scheduled intervals and entry into the "Noah’s Ark" visitor center, which contains an auditorium and educational exhibits. The "Lemur Forest" allows for walk-through interaction within a secure enclosure.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The zoo is fully accessible with paved paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Amenities include multiple public restroom blocks, a snack bar, and a central cafeteria near the lake. 5G cellular signal is available throughout the grounds. Shaded picnic areas and wooden gazebos are positioned at regular intervals along the 2.5-kilometer main walking loop.

Best Time to Visit

Animal activity is highest during the early morning hours (09:00–11:00) before peak temperatures. For photography, the spring months of March through May offer lush green hillsides and blooming wildflowers. During summer months, late afternoon visits provide better lighting and cooler conditions as the sun sets behind the western ridges of the valley.

Facts & Legends

Each animal enclosure features a display plaque citing the specific biblical verse in which the species is mentioned. A local "secret" for visitors is the sculpture garden located on the upper ridge, which contains large-scale, colorful mosaic animals created by artist Niki de Saint Phalle, offering a tactical play area separate from the live animal exhibits.