IDF Armoured Corps Museum

Latrun was one of the key battle grounds in the 1948 War for Independence as the large British fort controlled the road to besieged Jerusalem. It changed hands several times during the battles. So it is only fitting that Latrun was chosen as the site of this particular memorial and museum.

Today, this memorial and museum is the IDF Armored Corps Museum — also known as Yad La-Shiryon. Explanations on the key armored battles over the years and an incredible number of tanks (friendly and captured) many of which are accessible.

The IDF Armored Corps Museum is Israel’s official memorial site for the soldiers from the armored corps who fell in combat. The museum is housed in a British Mandate-era fortress; it also contains a synagogue and a library. Also in the museum premises is a long, white commemorative wall which engraves the names of the fallen soldiers who were killed in defense of the country.

tank on top of the towerTank collection

The IDF Armored Corps Museum also happens to be one of the biggest and most diverse tank museums in the world. The American M4 Sherman tank is one of the museum’s most famous landmark (pictured); it sits on top of a tower. That very image serves as the museum’s logo. In 1979 the tank was hoisted up on top of the tower, which once used to be a water tower.

The outdoor display features about 110 tanks and other armored combat vehicles, both Israeli and captured enemy vehicles. The captured enemy ones have been modified and updated.

You can also see a collection of mobile bridges constructed by the IDF. The tanks can carry and erect those mobile bridges, even in the midst of a battle.

It is, of course, a heaven for the boys of all ages and war history buffs. But it can also be an enriching experience for the whole family and anyone else who visits the museum.

See IDF Armored Corps Museum for more details.

You can also visit Mini Israel which is extremely close.

Getting To The IDF Armoured Corps Museum

Signposted from Latrun Junction (Road 1 Tel Aviv – Jerusalem & Road 3)
Many buses pass through Latrun Junction.

Opening hours

Sunday to Thursday – 8:30 to 16:00
Friday and holiday eves – 08:30 to 12:00
Saturday and holidays – 09:30 to 15:30

Entrance fee

Adult – 30 NIS
Child (age 5 to 16), student, senior citizen – 20 NIS
Family (2 parents and a minimum of three children age 5 to 16) – 100 NIS

Discounts and coupons

If you have a Matmon card issued by the National Parks and Nature Reserves in Israel, presenting it will allow you to enjoy a 20% discount. Another way to get the 20% discount is to print this coupon from the museum’s website.