The National Memorial Hall

The National Memorial Hall, inaugurated on Mount Herzl on Memorial Day in 2017, serves as a living testament to the heroism and dedication of the fallen defense and security forces of Israel. The hall is a unique commemoration project in memory of those who sacrificed for the state, from the army, police, Mossad, Israel Security Agency, and Israel Prison Service, from 1860 to the present day. The memory is passed down from generation to generation, and the commemoration in the hall is eternal. 

On every stone in the Hall, a name is engraved. The personal memorial brick demonstrates the importance of each individual, as the State of Israel exists thanks to each and every one of them. The use of stone symbolizes the Hebrew initials of father, son, grandson, or mother, daughter, granddaughter. This is a tangible reminder that the continuity of memory is made possible when we pass it from generation to generation.

All the stones in the structure support one another, much like the security forces depend on each other. If one brick is removed, the entire structure might collapse. Similarly, without the collective effort, the existence of the state would be at risk.

The names of the fallen are added to the walls of the hall within thirty days of their passing, and only after the family's approval is given. This process parallels the Jewish tradition of erecting a tombstone.

One of the guiding principles of the Memorial Hall is equal commemoration. All the fallen, regardless of rank, role, or background, are commemorated in the same way. This serves as a reminder that every life cut short holds equal value, and every sacrifice deserves the same respect and recognition.

At the Hall, a daily memorial service is held for the fallen whose annual memorial date falls on that day. The ceremony includes a military formation, the recitation of Izkor, a chapter of Psalms, Kaddish, the prayer 'El Malei Rachamim,' and the singing of the national anthem, Hatikvah. The memorial service is recorded and sent to the families of the fallen commemorated that day. Bereaved families and visitors participate in the daily memorial service. It is important to contact the staff and coordinate your visit to the hall and the ceremony, as a hall soldier personally accompanies bereaved families.

We invite you, bereaved families and the general public, to a guided tour in the National Memorial Hall, to add depth and meaning to the visit experience. During the tour, which is free of charge, you will go on a journey along the Wall of Names, encounter artistic and historical elements, and reach the Bell of Light. During the tour, you can learn about the daily commemoration of the fallen in the hall and participate in the daily memorial service, which is usually held at 11:00 AM (except on days of large memorial services, on which the daily memorial service is held at a different time). If you wish to participate in the memorial service, please contact the staff in advance to confirm the time.

The guided tour requires prior arrangement with the National Memorial Hall and is free of charge.

A group of 10 or more participants is required to take a guided tour.

Phone: 02-5646207
The call center operates Sunday to Thursday, from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Email: memorial_hall@mod.gov.il