On Monday, August 11, 2025, the Knesset Museum was inaugurated at the historic Beit Froumine on King George Street 24 in Jerusalem – 59 years after the parliament moved to its current home in Givat Ram
The festive ceremony was attended by President Isaac Herzog, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana, and Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion
The Ceremony at the Knesset Museum in Jerusalem
President Isaac Herzog emphasized the importance of the Knesset as a symbol of Israeli democracy, calling to safeguard its dignity and maintain its independence. He also addressed current political affairs, calling Australia’s recognition of a Palestinian state “a grave and dangerous mistake
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recalled his personal contribution to the project, as finance minister 21 years ago, when he approved funding for the purchase of the building
Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana stated that the building holds national and historical significance and that turning it into a museum will deepen the public’s familiarity with their elected representatives
Unique Experiences at the Knesset Museum in Beit Froumine
The museum, located in the Knesset’s first historic home from 1950 to 1966, is designed to commemorate the story of Israeli democracy and make it accessible to the public. It serves as an educational and experiential center for students, soldiers, university visitors, and tourists. It integrates interactive experiences and advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, allowing visitors to “experience” the work of the legislature
Among the museum’s highlights is a meticulously recreated plenum hall as it was in the 1950s and 1960s, complete with original furniture. Visitors can sit in the “plenum” and feel the atmosphere of past debates. There are also restored offices of the government and the Knesset speaker, where life-size historic figures such as David Ben-Gurion, Menachem Begin, and Golda Meir “appear” to speak. In the speaker’s office, portraits of the first speakers – Yosef Sprinzak, Kadish Luz, and Nahum Nir – “come to life” and describe their work in a style reminiscent of Harry Potter
The History of Beit Froumine and Its Transformation into the Knesset Museum
The museum also features an interactive escape room, “Ben-Gurion’s Secret Vault,” which displays his announcement on the capture of Adolf Eichmann, a reconstructed “Kol Israel” broadcasting booth, and the legendary cafeteria where visitors can taste dishes from the austerity era
(Graffiti on Western Wall, Mughrabi Gate Sparks Tears)
Beit Froumine was built by the Froumine family, owners of a bakery products factory, and designed by architect Reuven Averbuch. Construction began in 1947, halted during the War of Independence, and was later completed. The building served as the Knesset from March 1950 to August 1966, hosting key historical events, including presidential inaugurations, stormy debates, and landmark decisions. It was saved from demolition after a public campaign, and in 2010 a law was passed turning it into a museum
