Tisch Family Biblical Zoo | Jerusalem

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

Tisch Family Biblical Zoo, Jerusalem, Israel, Asia

The Tisch Family Zoological Gardens in Jerusalem, also known as the Biblical Zoo, is a 62-acre zoological park located in the Malha neighborhood of West Jerusalem. It is specialized in the exhibition and conservation of animal species mentioned in the Hebrew Bible.

Visual Characteristics

The park is designed on two main levels connected by a circular path, featuring a large man-made lake with a waterfall and a system of pools. The landscaping utilizes local flora to recreate various biblical ecosystems, including the Mediterranean scrub and desert environments. Architecture on-site is characterized by wooden and stone structures, including a large wooden ship-like structure housing the information center and exhibits.

Location & Access Logistics

The zoo is situated at Derech 1 in the Malha district. It is accessible via the Israel Railways Jerusalem-Malha station, located within walking distance of the entrance. Egged bus lines 26, 33, and 97 serve the zoo directly. A large, free parking lot is available for private vehicles. A motorized "zoo train" provides transport between the different sections of the park for a fee.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Founded in 1940 by zoologist Aharon Shulov, the zoo originally occupied several smaller sites in central Jerusalem before moving to its current location on the slopes of the Judean Mountains in 1993. The site's geology consists of terraced limestone hills. The institution focuses on breeding programs for endangered species, specifically those that were once native to the Land of Israel.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe various biblical animals, including Asiatic lions, Persian fallow deer, and Syrian brown bears. The campus includes the Gottesman Family Israel Aquarium, a separate facility dedicated to Israel's marine environments. Daily activities include guided feeding sessions and workshops at the petting zoo for children.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The grounds include a large cafeteria, multiple snack bars, and shaded picnic areas. Public restrooms are distributed throughout the park. The entire zoo is designed to be wheelchair and stroller accessible, with paved paths and elevators. High-speed 4G/5G cell signal is stable across the valley.

Best Time to Visit

Opening hours are typically 09:00 to 18:00 Sunday through Thursday, closing earlier on Fridays and staying open on Saturdays. Morning hours are optimal for animal activity and lower temperatures. Spring (March to May) is the most favorable season for viewing the botanical displays and newborns in the animal enclosures.

Facts & Legends

The zoo's information center is housed in a structure resembling "Noah's Ark," serving as a symbolic representation of the zoo's mission to protect and preserve species from extinction, mirroring the biblical narrative of the flood.