The Bell Caves of Beit Guvrin National Park have once again been transformed into an extraordinary canvas for art, nature, and sound. This July, the Israel Nature and Parks Authority launched the fifth edition of its celebrated art installation series with “Nari”—a mesmerizing video-sound exhibition created by acclaimed Israeli musician Idan Raichel, installation artist Merav Shaham, and sound designer Eli Haziza.

Running through November 2025, the installation invites visitors on a rich sensory journey into the depths of the Bell Caves, where sound, story, and light create a meditative experience rooted in the heritage of the land. The exhibition draws its name from “Nari,” the hard upper layer of limestone that shapes the cave openings and symbolizes strength, memory, and resilience.

Raichel has reimagined and re-recorded several of his beloved songs with unique traditional instruments to match the cave’s acoustics and atmosphere. The music is woven seamlessly into the projected visuals, which reflect the tale of the "People of Silence"—a nomadic group that returns to its homeland to reconnect with nature, spirit, and self through visions revealed in the earth.

“The multi-sensory exhibition envelops visitors through the music and imagery projected on the walls. The songs and story at the heart of the exhibition deal with the search for home, roots, human connection, and connection to nature – as anchors that give us meaning and hope, even in stormy times,” said Idan Raichel.

Curated by Hilly Wartman Moyal with artistic direction by Yair Moss and project management by Carmi Wartman, Nari is a rare fusion of heritage, introspection, and innovation.

“The caves become more than just ancient spaces; they become places of healing, memory, and artistic revival,” said Merav Shaham, who sees the exhibition as a tribute to endurance and national identity.

Tomer Sargosti, Manager of Beit Guvrin National Park, emphasized the collaborative efforts behind the exhibition:

“This year too, we ensured an empowering experience through advanced multimedia systems installed in the cave. Visitors can enjoy the natural environment and an inspiring layer of culture and creativity.”

In addition to the exhibition, the park offers picnic baskets for couples or small groups, filled with gourmet cheese, wine, and local treats—an ideal companion to a sunset view or post-visit wind-down.

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, Beit Guvrin is often referred to as the “Land of a Thousand Caves.” The park houses the ancient city of Tel Maresha, Roman amphitheaters, and a variety of archeological marvels dating back over 2,000 years.

Since 2020, the Bell Caves have also served as a venue for site-specific art, blending historical reverence with modern creativity—without compromising the integrity of the natural surroundings.

Nari is open during evening and nighttime hours. Tickets and more information can be found here: https://parks.qrd.by/narirp

Free visual materials available here:
Drive Link (Photographer credit in file header)