The Tisch Family Zoological Gardens is located in the southwestern part of Jerusalem (currently near the Malkha Mall and the Jerusalem Railway Station) and is included in the master plan for that part of the city. Several alternative areas in Jerusalem were discussed before selecting the final location of the zoological gardens.
Extensive site development and infrastructure works were executed in order to construct the zoological gardens, among them: pumping installations, [water] supply and wastewater treatment, interior paths and roadways, landscaping, special cages for the animals [and] veterinary services that include a veterinary clinic. Because the zoological gardens were constructed near the Rephaim River Nature Reserve within an exposed wadi, a complex drainage system was needed that also provides flood protection. A 5000 m² artificial lake was constructed in the middle of the site. This is one of the first projects Israel in which intensive use was made of treated wastewater for landscape irrigation.
The site serves not only as a zoo, but also as a family recreation park with playgrounds, shaded areas and lawns.
This revitalized biblical zoo in Jerusalem is one of the most sophisticated in the world and one of the most popular tourist sites in Jerusalem.