Zion Orphanage

Zion Orphanage is a residential facility for children and teenagers in Jerusalem's Geula district. The one-acre grounds include a central courtyard, outdoor play area, gymnasium, library, and small animal zoo serving residents aged 3 to 22.

Rabbi Abraham Yochanan Blumenthal founded this institution in 1900 near the Bukharim neighborhood, establishing what would become Israel's oldest active Jewish orphanage. The facility has evolved from a shelter for vulnerable children into an organized residential community.

Children from different Jewish backgrounds live and study together here, creating a shared community through Hebrew and common practices. Visitors can observe how this mix of traditions shapes daily life in the residence.

The facility operates using a family model where small groups of about 12 children live with young couples serving as residential caregivers. When visiting, be respectful of the residents' privacy and remember this is a working home, not a display space.

This facility hosted the first meeting of the Belzer Rebbe in Jerusalem in 1944 following his escape from Nazi-occupied Europe. The event marked an important moment in the religious life of the Jewish community here.

Location: Jerusalem

Website: https://zionorphanage.com

GPS coordinates: 31.78968,35.21900

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:04