Cyclorama de Jérusalem

Let’s see how you are doing at 123 years old and compare...the attraction is closing on 31st October this year apparently so be quick to catch it if 19th century religious oil painted dioramas are your thing. It is fundamentally analogue from the tape cassettes powering the narration to the mechanical lamp that grinds round the painting spotlighting different scenes in time with the commentary. The painting itself is beautiful and detailed, you will have your own view on the subject matter. No photographs ! $13 entry plus $2 for binoculars is overpriced but a nice unhurried offline experience in an age gone digital.

The painting/art work is impressive, considering it was created in 1895. The building needs updating, the sound could be better, a bit expensive for what you get. Also felt that the narrative was all about the painting and the artists, when it could have been more biblical and historical about the city of Jerusalem. I felt that the people running the place are not keeping with times, this could be an amazing experience if updated and more time spent on the narrative. To the management, check out the bible museum in Washington, creation museum and the ark encounter in Kentucky USA, these are all great examples of how history and the bible can be brought to life and more engaging for this era.

Rather pricey tourist trap that has definitely seen better days. Call it a unique piece of pop religion, call it kitsch… either way it's a unique experience, the kind you won't find outside Quebec.

The painting itself (while faded somewhat) is massive and the work is of high quality. One neat factoid: the Cyclorama has been on display since 1895, meaning it predates the current incarnation of the famous basilica next door (which was only constructed in 1922).

We have stopped there several times since first seeing it and thinking it was a velodrome building for bike racing sports. The first visit we stayed through 2 English and one French "tours" following the laser pointer identifying the various buildings and locations in ancient Jerusalem. We rented the binoculars - so worthwhile! - the detail included by the artists can be best appreciated with a magnified view. Yes the attraction is low tech and certainly is of another century but the artistry and accuracy are spectacular. An upgrade to the entrance and gleaming stainless / glass / marble accents won't capture any more of the loving talents put into this 360 degree mural which immerses one in the Jerusalem on the day Jesus was crucified. It is one of few remaining examples of the "Panorama" attraction that preceeded motion pictures and if it were in Montreal or Toronto or New York people would be lined up to have an opportunity to virtually travel in place and back in time. Looking forward to our next visit!

The place offers a huge panoramic painting with a 15-20 minutes vocal guide that explains what we see (and gives too many compliments to the creators).
The painting itself is very impressive and given a 3d impression in some parts, but I think the entrance fee is overpriced... I wouldn't pay ~10$ for a single painting, no matter has big it is.
I would also expect a turning platform that takes you, seated, around the hall.