A Street full of Prophets and...Italians?

The Story of Jerusalem’s Italian Hospital

Introduction

Tucked away on Rechov HaNevi’im—the historic Street of the Prophets—stands the Italian Hospital, a building whose walls tell the story of Jerusalem’s turbulent 20th century, architectural ambition, and international connections. From its inception to its modern-day restoration, this hospital is far more than just a medical facility—it’s a monument to resilience, culture, and history.

Rechov HaNevi’im: Jerusalem’s Historic Street of Healing

In the 19th century, overcrowding and poor sanitation in Jerusalem’s Old City forced hospitals to relocate, and many found a new home along Rechov HaNevi’im, the Street of the Prophets. This street, lined with historic buildings and home to numerous Christian missions, became a hub of medical care and cultural exchange. Early institutions included the Marienstift Children’s Hospital (1872) founded by Dr. Max Sandreczky, the Italian Hospital, the German Deaconess Hospital (1894), and the English Hospital (1896), which later became the Anglican School.

Jerusalem’s first Jewish hospital outside the Old City, the Meyer Rothschild Hospital—currently home to the Jerusalem Multidisciplinary College—was established here in 1888 by Baron James Rothschild in honor of his father, followed by Bikur Cholim Hospital in 1910. Together, these institutions transformed Rechov HaNevi’im into a center of healing, community, and international collaboration—a legacy that still resonates along the street’s historic buildings today.

From Foundation Stone to Finished Walls

Our story begins in 1910, when the first stone of the Italian Hospital was laid. Construction officially started two years later, but the world had other plans. Fighting in Libya between Italy and the Ottomans briefly halted the project, and soon after, the outbreak of World War I in 1914 caused construction to stop again. During this time, the unfinished building served as a military hospital, a temporary solution for a city in flux.It wasn’t until 1919, after years of delays and global upheaval, that the hospital was finally completed. Its elegant Renaissance style design reflected the vision of Antonio Barluzzi, the celebrated Italian architect later known as the “architect of the Holy Land”. Interestingly, this was Barluzzi’s first project in Jerusalem, preceding his later masterpieces, including the Church of Gethsemane, the Church of the Transfiguration, and Dominus Flevit.

War and Occupation

The hospital’s role in history did not end with its construction. In 1939, as World War II erupted, the British seized the building, turning it into a local RAF headquarters and a military hospital. Its strategic location made it a key site in a city once again facing conflict.During the 1948 War of Independence, the building was fortified with pillboxes and sentry towers to protect it from attacks by Etzel and Lechi forces. As the British Mandate came to an end, the Hagana learned the precise timing of the British withdrawal. Using the back entrance, they swiftly moved in, and within minutes, the Israeli flag flew from the hospital’s main tower. Unfortunately, the building was also damaged by Jordanian shelling, particularly the roof and tower. After the war, ownership returned to Italy, though Israel declined to pay for the war damage since it had been caused by Jordanian fire.

A New Chapter

In 1963, the Italian Hospital entered a new phase when it was sold to the Israeli government. It was repurposed for the Ministry of Education and Culture, serving administrative functions rather than patients. Over the decades, the building showed its age, particularly in the roof and interior spaces. Finally, in 2002, renovations restored the structure to its former glory, preserving its historical charm while giving it a new lease on life.

Architectural Marvel and Italian Heritage

The Italian Hospital was originally built to serve Italian pilgrims visiting the Holy Land, making it both a cultural and spiritual hub. Its Renaissance-inspired design, with clean lines and balanced proportions, marked a striking addition to Jerusalem’s architectural landscape.Barluzzi’s genius is visible not only in this building but in his other celebrated works: the Church of the Beatitudes, Dominus Flevit, and the Church of the Transfiguration. The hospital stands as a testament to his early vision and dedication to creating sacred spaces imbued with artistry and meaning.

The Case of the Missing Wolves

No story of the Italian Hospital would be complete without its quirks. The hospital tower was once adorned with four statues of wolves suckling two children, referencing the Roman myth of Romulus and Remus.  The same she-wolf theme appears as well on the complex’s black iron gate, left of the main entrance.  By 2012, only two statues remained. By 2015, all four had vanished. Thanks to the sleuth work of a local tour guide and Jerusalem’s Department of Preservation of Historical Sites, two broken statues were eventually discovered across the street at Bet Mahanaim, adding a touch of mystery and charm to the building’s history.

A Living Monument

The Italian Hospital is more than just a building—it’s a living narrative of Jerusalem itself. From wars and occupations to architectural milestones and quirky legends, it offers visitors a window into the city’s past and a deeper appreciation for its layered history.