Jerusalem Liberation Day

Yom Yerushalayim – Jerusalem Day, is an Israeli national holiday commemorating and celebrating the June 1967 reunification of Jerusalem and the liberation of its “Old City”. In honor of Jerusalem Liberation Day, we have put together some suggestions for enjoyable and meaningful activities, great for the entire family.

Ammunition Hill and Mount Scopus – Jerusalem, Israel

Ammunition Hill, Jerusalem, Israel | Photo: ד”ר אבישי טייכר | Courtesy of PikiWiki

The British built the Police Academy and Ammunition Hill to consolidate their hold on the country during the British mandate period, from 1920-1948. During the War of Independence In 1948, the Jordanians occupied Jerusalem and the region was divided (until the Six Day War on June 5, 1967). The nearby Mount Scopus remained as an enclave within the Jordanian territory, controlled by Israel after the War of Independence. The Jordanians built a military outpost at the Academy and at Ammunition Hill; one of three outposts built along the road to Mount Scopus.

On June 5, 1967, at the outset of the Six Day War, it was decided by the IDF to take back the north of Jerusalem, including the Jordanian outposts and the road to Mount Scopus, which included Ammunition Hill.

The battle was tough and valiant and cost the lives of many fallen soldiers. The IDF had to disconnect the Jordanians from three Jordanian outposts in order to conquer back and liberate northern Jerusalem. The IDF forces were formed by the Jerusalem Brigade and the Armored Division of Harel. In addition, the paratroopers joined to fight and take back the northern city and the Old City of Jerusalem.

After the liberation of the city of Jerusalem, the IDF cleared mines laid by the Jordanian along the border. New neighborhoods were built on the rocky hills such as Mivtar Hill, Ramat Eshkol, Neve Yaakov and Ramot.

 The Ammunition Hill Memorial Museum

Ammunition Hill Museum, Jerusalem, Israel| Photo: ד”ר אבישי טייכר | Courtesy of PikiWiki

Several year later, a museum was built at Ammunition Hill in memory of the fallen soldiers who bravely fought for the liberation of Jerusalem, the eternal capital of Israel. The site commemorates this miraculous event. The site also commemorates the unpublished writings, poems, pictures and songs left behind by the fallen soldiers which were published after their passing.

The Museum displays a Memorial Wall Monument to the fallen soldiers, as well as documentary videos and photos. There is even a tour of the location and its trenches. Verdant, lush, green manicured lawns surround the museum. Fascinating guided tours are provided. This is highly recommended to those who want to learn about the legacy of the 1967 war in Jerusalem.

Hadassah Hospital on Mount Scopus:

Hadassah Hospital on Mount Scopus is associated with the Medical School of Hebrew University – one of the most advanced academic institutions in the world. The Mount Scopus hospital is currently one of the largest and most modern hospitals in Israel. The hospital is part of the Hadassah women’s organization. The site has a great observation point with views of the Mount of Olives, the Old City and the Dead Sea.

Amphitheater Mount Scopus, Jerusalem, Israel| Photo: ד”ר אבישי טייכר | Courtesy of PikiWiki

 These are sites which can be visited throughout the year. (They’re not just for Independence Day and Yom Yerushalayim!) They are important parts of the “Israel experience” and an interesting and important source of information for anyone who wants to better understand the history of the State of Israel.

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