May 2025
I am pleased to announce the launch of Herzl-Online, a digital platform providing broad public access to documents from Theodor Herzl’s archive providing online access to the Central Zionist Archives collections in a user-friendly and convenient format for browsing.
Herzl’s personal archive includes thousands of documents. As an initial step, we are publishing his Zionist diaries—meticulously recorded accounts of his life’s work—as well as the handwritten manuscript of his novel Altneuland, in which he articulated his vision for a renewed Hebrew society in the Land of Israel. These foundational documents are essential for understanding Herzl’s ideas, character, and legacy. We plan to expand the project over time to include additional materials that will shed further light on his thought and activity.
The documents are presented as an annotated digital edition, featuring cross-references to related archival items and photographs. These enrich the historical context and enhance understanding of the events described. The platform aims to serve as both an educational tool for institutions in Israel and abroad and a source of inspiration for further exploration.
In addition to the original German, we have included Hebrew and English translations to ensure global accessibility. For the first time, users can view Herzl’s original manuscript, track his handwritten edits, and read the transcription and translation side by side. We intend to add more languages in the future.
We believe that access to original source materials will deepen public knowledge of the Zionist enterprise, strengthen the connection between the Jewish people and the State of Israel, and foster greater engagement with Herzl’s legacy.
This project has been executed with utmost accuracy and academic care to ensure the reliability of the materials and support academic research. It represents a significant contribution for Herzl researchers worldwide and opens new avenues for the study of early Zionism.
I would like to express sincere gratitude to all who made this initiative possible:
To Mr. George Blumenthal, the project’s initiator, who secured funding and remained deeply involved throughout with unwavering commitment to the Zionist cause; to the generous donors whose names appear on the acknowledgments page; to Ms. Suzanne Berns, Curator of the Theodor Herzl Archive, who managed the project with professionalism and resolve, and led it with dedication and a steadfast commitment to producing a precise and high-quality result; to Ardon Bar-Hama for the professional photography and production of the complex website; to the members of the steering committee; and to Professor Derek Penslar, our academic advisor. A full list of contributors appears on the acknowledgments page.
Dr. Yigal Sitry
Former Director, Central Zionist Archives
May 2025