Knesset

The Knesset traces its roots to the early days of the State of Israel, holding its inaugural session on February 14, 1949, in Jerusalem. Initially, the parliament met in various temporary locations, including a movie theater in Tel Aviv and the Froumine House in downtown Jerusalem. It was not until the mid-1950s that plans for a permanent home were finalized, symbolizing the transition from a provisional government to a stable, sovereign nation. The current building was designed by architect Joseph Klarwein after an intense competition that drew entries from around the world. It was funded largely by a generous donation from James de Rothschild, who expressed his wish that the building be a symbol of the permanence of the State of Israel. Construction began in 1958 and the building was officially inaugurated on August 30, 1966, standing as a prominent example of modernist architecture on the hilltop of Givat Ram. Since its opening, the Knesset has been the stage for the most pivotal moments in Israel's history. From the heated debates over national identity to the historic address by Egyptian President Anwar Sadat in 1977, these walls have witnessed the evolution of a nation. The building's interior is equally significant, featuring masterpieces like the Marc Chagall tapestries, which depict the history and aspirations of the Jewish people, blending political function with profound cultural heritage.