ANU: Museum of the Jewish People

ANU: The Museum of the Jewish People is a vast museum that chronicles the history of Jews around the world and is a fascinating look into understanding Jewish Identity. ANU has some amazing displays, some of which are interactive, and its location, within the campus of Tel Aviv University, is interesting in itself as you get to visit one of Israel’s leading academic institutions. ANU opened its newest exhibition in 2020 which provides meaningful insight into Jewish culture around the world and brings awareness to the connectivity of Jewish life and the diversity within it. On February 23, 2024, they opened an October Seventh exhibition. Described as “A Space of Anguish, Loss, Anger, Memory, and Sorrow,” the exhibition examines how Israeli culture reacts to the war.

About ANU

ANU: The Museum of the Jewish People (originally Beit Hatsufot) was the idea of Dr. Nahum Goldmann, founder and first president of the World Jewish Congress. The museum runs through the 2,500-year history of the Jewish diaspora, sending you around the world to the Jewish communities that established and grew uniquely. With a multimedia and family history library, Jews can even trace back their own roots here!

Some of the exhibitions at ANU include Synagogues of past and present, an exciting look at 21 models that represent diverse synagogues around the world, with the inclusion of Judaica, art, and a variety of interactive activities. For families, there are many exhibits to enjoy for a variety of ages, including the Trailblazers exhibition which is specially designed for children between 6-12 years to learn about Jewish heroes including both male and female artists, athletes, actors, scientists, and cultural icons. Another exhibition promotes Jewish humor, exploring the history of humor and the modern implications of laughter in Jewish life by exploring current comedians.

ANU is without a doubt one of the most interesting museums in Tel Aviv. After your visit, we highly recommend visiting the Eretz Israel Museum, another impressive site.