KKL-JNF Photo Archive

Photo: Avi Hirschfield, KKL-JNF' Photo Archive

KKL-JNF is well-known for its diverse work as the spearhead of Zionist action in Israel and the diaspora for more than a century. Less known is the additional and fascinating role it played in the renaissance of Hebrew culture, including its contribution to Israeli photography.

KKL-JNF's Photo Archive – part of the Department of Publications and Audio-Visual Aids, the Division of Communications and Public Affairs – was set up in 1920. It houses a treasure of some 180,000 prints and slides in color and black-and-white. It captures 100 years of photography: from the start of the 20th century to the present. Serving a broad public of scholars and professionals, it preserves rare and unique pictures, some of which were taken by leading photographers of the day. Since the Archives' establishment, its resources have been widely utilized in publications and exhibitions in Israel and abroad.

Photo: KKL-JNF Photo Archive
Photo: KKL-JNF Photo Archive

The photographs depict and document not only KKL-JNF work over the decades, but also key episodes in the history of Jewish settlement and life in the land of Israel: reclaiming land and building new communities, the pioneers, early cites and moshav farming communities, ceremonies and festivals, immigrant absorption, distinguished figures and Zionist Congresses. Furthermore, the archive is constantly updated with current photos, mirroring KKL-JNF’s activities in the present and its look to the future as it develops the country for the benefit of its residents.

Click here to search the archive (Currently in Hebrew only)

Click here for KKL-JNF employee photo galleries

Click here for the Tzaparton Annual Birdwatching Competition archive

For queries concerning the photo archive: efrats@kkl.org.il

All other queries: pneyot-tzibur@kkl.org.il