The Palmach Museum in Tel Aviv tells the story of the Palmach, the Haganah‘s strike forces, which played a crucial role in the Israeli War of Independence.
The museum includes to permanent exhibits: Palmach Journey and Gachal Memorial.
The exhibits are very modern with three-dimensional scenery, films, and various effects incorporating first hand accounts and personal stories.
The museum is experienced through group tours which begin and end in the memorial hall.
This hall is dedicated to Palmach soldier who died fighting for establishment of the state of Israel.
Visitors get a fascinating look at the period of the establishment of the State, and at various events that influenced establishment of the State of Israel.
The museum explores everything from training, through the struggle against British rule and from immigration to the War of Independence.
Palmach Journey
The Palmach Journey exhibit begins with the establishment of the Palmach and it’s young recruits.
It follows the story of ten friends and their experiences during the battles of the Palmach, the settlements established by it, and its spirit and heritage.
The Gachal Memorial
The Gachal (overseas recruits) exhibit tells the moving story of Holocaust survivors and new immigrants, who came to Israel before and during the War of Independence, and took part in the battles.
It sheds light on the part played by Holocaust survivors in the War of Independence.
This includes their choice to live on, the war effort, and the sensitive encounter with the country and its people.
The Plamach House
The Palmach Museum is only one section of the Plamach House.
In addition, are two collection rooms, presenting original and moving information:
The Palmach photo gallery exhibits 120 albums with photos taken and edited by members of the Palmach in the 1940’s.
Room of the Fallen Soldiers gives a glance to the world of the fallen among the Palmach through their estates, letters, and life stories.
Temporary exhibitions are displayed at the Palmach House as well.
Visit
Visits to the museum must be scheduled in advance.
You can only visit one of the two permanent views on one tour.
Each tour lasts about an hour and a half, with the possibility of extension at the request of visitors.
The presentation is in Hebrew while translation through headphones are provided in English, Spanish, French, Russian, and Mandarin Chinese.
See the Palmach Museum webpage for visiting hours and ticket prices.