Treasures of the Citadel: A Sukkot Activity for the Whole Family at the Tower of David

Among the ancient stones and towers lie 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 in it, and discover the secrets they left behind.

Puzzle games and missions, coin-inspired crafts, an archery workshop, ancient musical instruments, a storytelling session about a Jerusalem monster, tours, a climb to the turret, and more surprises await you. Our sukkah will also be open to everyone, next to Hamigdal Café.

Station details

The Citadel Mystery: A Puzzle and Mission Game Throughout the Citadel

Young researchers—we invite you to solve the citadel’s mystery. Equipped with a research kit containing a measuring tape, magnifying glass, key to secret writing, and map, set out on a journey following the citadel’s builders. Along the way, you will search for clues, decipher codes, and complete missions until you solve the mystery.

Starting point: Olive Tree
Starts every half hour: 10:15, 10:45, 11:15, 11:45, 12:15, 12:45, 13:15, 13:45, 14:15, 14:45, 15:15, 15:45
Suitable for ages 6+

Coins from the Past – Creative Workshop

We will learn about the ancient coins displayed in the museum—the inspiration for the coins we all carry in our wallets. Using clay and gold- or silver-colored modeling material, children will make a coin of their choice with a magnet.

Location: Roni Hall
For all ages

Theatrical Storytelling: Michael and the Monster

Many people do not know that the beloved author Meir Shalev wrote his children’s book Michael and the Monster to mark 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 will also meet the rulers who built Jerusalem, from King David to the present day.

Actress: Idit Moldovan
Location: Gallery 7
Hours: 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 14:30, 15:30, 16:30

Traveling Sounds with Ancient Instruments

An interactive musical workshop exploring when and where ancient musical instruments were created, how they traveled between cultures, and how they can be made today using recycled materials found in every home.

Led by musician: Idan Sekler
Location: Herb Garden
Hours: 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00
For all ages

Archers at the Citadel

What does it feel like to be an archer in the citadel? Children will try shooting real bows and arrows and learn 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
For all ages

A Tour Following the Pilgrims

A guided tour throughout the citadel and galleries, following the pilgrims. We will hear about pilgrimage customs during Sukkot and the Temple in Jerusalem, learn about King Herod’s construction on the Temple Mount and in the citadel, and ascend Phasael Tower, the highest lookout in the Old City.

Tour meeting point: Near the main stage
Tours depart every half hour.
First tour: 10:00
Last tour: 16:30
Duration: Approximately 40 minutes
Suitable for ages 5+

Dressing Up in History – Costume Station

Kings and queens, knights, pilgrims, and many other figures from the past await 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.

For all ages

Ascending the Tower of David Turret

You are invited to climb the stairs to the citadel’s famous turret. Take a magical pause and breathe deeply while enjoying an exceptional view of the Old City and the New City.

Suitable for ages 5+
Additional fee: ₪15
[Click here to purchase tickets for the turret]

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

Advance registration required; places are limited.

[Click here for the Jerusalem Club benefit – ₪26 (full price ₪35).]