The Iron Heritage Museum presents castings, engravings and medallions through which the history of Zionism and the State of Israel can be experienced throughout the twentieth century.
In 2003, only 24 hours after he finally closed the doors of the Jerusalem workshop for symbols, coins and medals, founded by his father Shmuel Kretsmer 100 years prior, the metal craftsman Eliyahu Kretsmer passed away.
Eliyahu’s son, Boaz Kretsmer, a member of Kibbutz Tzeelim for over 40 years, brought several hundred items to his kibbutz – a few of the many thousands that were produced there since the beginning of the twentieth century until its end.
In 2018, the Iron Heritage Museum opened its doors in its new and spacious location in Kibbutz Tzeelim. This is a fascinating museum, boasting a unique design, in which the spectacular metal works it presents is the heritage of all of us, embedded in the family story.
Here you will discover a rare collection of metal works, medals and symbols produced by a family of Jerusalem craftsmen. Their spectacular works, engraved in steel, tell the story of Palestine, Zionism and the State of Israel throughout the twentieth century and up to the present day.
The museum has several exhibition rooms, each of which has a different theme. Among the topics: “Morris Shatz’s Bezalel”, “Between the Two Wars”, “Beacon for Revival”, “The First Decade of the State of Israel”, the IDF and more.
The guidance in the museum combines the personal and family story with the national heritage and describes the establishment of the unique museum and its impressive design.
The visit to the museum is intended for groups, and is combined with a guided tour that lasts about an hour and a half.
Don’t miss: The “State of Israel” themed room – a unique hall that summarizes in steel and copper many of the events since 1958, from the first medal to the Yitzhak Rabin medal.
Did you know? The collection also describes and presents the main stages in the production of a medal or symbol – from the idea stage and the initial models to the final stamping stages.
Opening hours: by prior arrangement and for groups only, daily at 8:00 a.m to 8:00 p.m.
Photo: Iron Heritage Museum
