Holyland Model of Jerusalem

According to Yael Padan, the model was built in 1962–1966, a time when almost the entire area it depicts was under Jordanian rule and therefore off-limits for Israeli archaeologists and visitors alike. This endowed the model with a multi-layered purpose, of replacing the original site, educating the Israeli public, and creating a sense of national belonging and continuity. According to Annabel J. Wharton, the model, measuring , was commissioned in 1966 by the banker Hans Kroch, the owner of the Holyland Hotel, in memory of his son, Yaakov, an IDF soldier who was killed in Israel's 1948 War of Independence. The model was designed by Israeli historian and geographer Michael Avi-Yonah based on the writings of Flavius Josephus and other historical sources. The model includes a replica of the Herodian Temple. From 1974, Yoram Tsafrir (1938–2015) superintended the Holyland Model of Jerusalem. In 2006, the model was relocated to the southern edge of the Billy Rose Sculpture Garden at the Israel Museum. In preparation for the move, the model was sawn into 100 pieces and later reassembled. The Holyland Hotel spent $3.5 million on the move. == Notable depictions ==

The Jerusalem model features a number of notable and important structures, as the model was based on the writings of Josephus at the time of its construction. Since then some modifications have been made to the model, such as the removal of the Hippodrome, because the archeological research didn't corroborate its existence which is controversial. To its probable existence point the fact that they organized feasts and celebrations in the city similar in fashion to the Greek ones. Districts The city was divided into districts. On the eastern range, from north to south, stood the Temple complex on the Temple Mount; the Ophel; and the City of David. On the western range, the Upper City covered the highest area to the west and the southern slopes, with the Lower City on the lower southeast slopes. Bezetha was the northern New City. It was located somewhere near (probably east of) the modern Damascus Gate, close to the fish market. It is also believed to have been mentioned in the Book of Nehemiah. • Psephinus Tower: It was located on the north-western corner of the Third Wall of Jerusalem. ==See also==