Is it a pyramid? Or perhaps a spaceship that landed in the heart of Jerusalem? This, my friends, is the Bank of Israel. This unique building, designed by the renowned architect Arieh Sharon and his son, Eldar, has been the bank’s home since 1981. The design, often compared to an inverted pyramid, was inspired by Boston City Hall. But the story of the Bank of Israel begins long before this concrete giant graced the Jerusalem skyline. In 1954, the Bank of Israel Law was passed, marking the birth of Israel’s central bank. Before that, the power to issue currency rested with Bank Leumi, a relic of the pre-independence era. In those early years, the bank grappled with stabilizing a young nation’s economy. It wasn’t always easy. The bank faced recessions, inflation, and even a severe economic crisis in the 1980s. But through it all, the Bank of Israel learned, adapted, and grew. Today, the Bank of Israel stands as a symbol of economic stability and strength. Its mission? To maintain price stability, support the government’s economic goals, and ensure the stability of Israel’s financial system. As you stand before this architectural marvel, remember, you’re not just looking at a building. You are witnessing the legacy of a nation’s economic journey, etched in concrete and glass.
African Savannah
Is it possible to imagine the heart of Africa beating in Jerusalem? Right here at the African Savannah in the