The Mayanot Institute of Jewish Studies marked a major milestone on Monday with the grand opening of the Mayanot World Center, a $20 million state-of-the-art campus located across from Sacher Park in central Jerusalem.
The new facility, which serves as the flagship home for the institute, includes a modern beit midrash (study hall), expansive dining areas, a rooftop event space with panoramic views of Jerusalem, landscaped gardens and a meditation zone, a fully equipped gym and upgraded dormitories with kitchenettes on every floor.
A dedicated Lone Soldier Center was also established to support IDF servicemembers studying at Mayanot, offering them community and comfort away from home.
The event on Monday featured speeches by Mayanot Executive Director Rabbi Kasriel Shemtov, dean of Studies Rabbi Shlomo Gestetner, and Special Events Coordinator Rabbi Moshe Silver.
“We are standing here in the neighborhood called the gateway to Jerusalem, itself known as Shaar HaShamayim, the gateway to heaven,” said Gestetner. “Here, students come to learn, to discover and delve deeply into their spiritual roots. But a gateway works in two directions. At Mayanot, this is where Jewish leaders develop—people who will go on to impact communities throughout the world with their knowledge, passion and desire to make a difference.”
Approaching its 30th anniversary, Mayanot has grown into one of the world’s largest Birthright Israel providers. In the past year alone, it welcomed more than 400 students from 16 countries and 94 universities. The expanded campus will now allow Mayanot to further expand its offerings, including immersive study programs, Israel-advocacy seminars, internships, and volunteer initiatives.
According to the institute, the Mayanot World Center represents "a significant investment in the future of global Jewish education and leadership, reinforcing Jerusalem’s role as a hub of learning, identity, and spiritual growth."