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The Palestine Museum in Istanbul, located in the Fatih district, has launched an immersive Virtual Reality (VR) experience that allows visitors to take a lifelike tour through the courtyards and halls of Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Old City of Jerusalem.
With just a VR headset, guests can explore sacred sites in remarkable detail—wandering through alleyways, admiring architectural wonders,
The museum offers an immersive experience that allows visitors to step through centuries of history as if they were physically there.
Each section of the museum focuses on a different subject: heritage, markets, and daily life.
The project aims to reconnect Palestinians in the diaspora and visitors from around the world with one of Islam’s holiest landmarks, especially at a time when travel to Jerusalem remains difficult for many.
The initiative is part of the museum’s broader mission to raise awareness about Palestinian culture, history, and identity through interactive technology and educational exhibits.
“With a single step, you will find yourself walking through the heart of Jerusalem—seeing its beauty, feeling its spirit, and breathing in the fragrance of its ancient history,” reads the museum’s promotional message.
The museum features bilingual displays in Turkish and Arabic, tracing Palestinian history from 637 CE to Oct. 7, 2023.
Visitors can view historical maps showing the gradual loss of territory, along with scenes of daily life—markets, homes and crafts.
Artifacts and replicas such as olive oil, stones, soil, and handmade items from Palestine provide a tangible link to the land.
The exhibition documents key political agreements, resistance movements, and notable historical figures.
Sections on literature, cinema, and art honor Palestinian creators, while displays of old currency and traditional cuisine highlight the country’s cultural richness.
Originally established in August 2023 at a different location, the museum was relocated to its current venue in April 2024.
The founder, Ibrahem Al Ali, created the institution as a tribute to his homeland, aiming to preserve Palestinian history, memory and identity.
“We opened this museum in Istanbul so that the message of Palestine can reach the entire world,” Al Ali said.
Committed to keeping Palestine’s culture and daily life alive in the diaspora, he invited visitors to explore the country’s heritage through artifacts, reconstructions and historical displays.
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