The Rockefeller Archeological Museum in Jerusalem is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and archaeology. The museum is located in East Jerusalem, and it houses a magnificent collection of antiquities from the time of the British Mandate. The collection features the remains of a 10,000-year-old settlement, as well as artifacts from the Bronze Age, Iron Age, and the Roman and Byzantine periods.
Visitors to the Rockefeller Museum can see a wide range of artifacts, including pottery, jewelry, coins, and ancient tools. One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of 8th-century doors from the Al-Aqsa Mosque, which are beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and inscriptions. The museum also features a collection of decorative architectural elements from the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, which date back to the 12th century.
In addition to its impressive collection of artifacts, the Rockefeller Museum is also known for its stunning architecture. The building was designed by architect Austin St. Barbe Harrison, and it features a unique blend of Islamic, Byzantine, and Crusader architectural styles. The museum is surrounded by a beautiful garden, which provides a peaceful and serene atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.
History of the Rockefeller Museum
The Rockefeller Museum is an archaeology museum located in East Jerusalem. It was formerly known as the Palestine Archaeological Museum (PAM) from 1938 to 1967. The museum was established by the British Mandate in Palestine and was designed by the British architect, Austen St. Barbe Harrison.
Establishment
The museum was established in 1920 by the British Mandate’s Department of Antiquities, which was responsible for the preservation and excavation of archaeological sites in Palestine. The museum was initially located in a small building in the Old City of Jerusalem, but it was later moved to its current location in 1938.
The museum’s collection includes artifacts from various periods of Palestine’s history, including the Canaanite, Israelite, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic periods. The museum’s exhibits also include artifacts from the Dead Sea Scrolls, which were discovered in the 1940s in the Qumran Caves near the Dead Sea.
Architectural Significance
The Rockefeller Museum is considered to be one of the most important examples of early 20th-century architecture in Palestine. The building was designed by the British architect, Austen St. Barbe Harrison, who was inspired by the architectural styles of the Middle East.
The museum’s architecture reflects the blend of different cultures that have influenced the region over the centuries. The building features a mix of Islamic, Byzantine, and Crusader architectural styles, which are combined with modern techniques and materials.
The museum’s architecture is also notable for its use of local materials, such as the Jerusalem stone, which gives the building a unique and distinctive appearance. The building’s interior is also decorated with intricate mosaics and ornate carvings, which add to its aesthetic appeal.
Overall, the Rockefeller Museum is an important cultural institution that showcases the rich history and heritage of Palestine. Its unique architecture and impressive collection of artifacts make it a must-see destination for anyone interested in the region’s history and culture.
Art and Exhibitions
Permanent Collection
The Rockefeller Museum in Jerusalem houses a vast collection of artifacts that are arranged in chronological order. The permanent collection includes objects from prehistoric times to the Ottoman period. Visitors can see an extensive range of archaeological finds such as pottery, jewelry, coins, and mosaics. The museum also displays a variety of ancient architectural elements such as columns, capitals, and lintels.
One of the highlights of the permanent collection is the exhibition of the Dead Sea Scrolls. These ancient manuscripts were discovered in the mid-20th century in the caves of Qumran, near the Dead Sea. The Rockefeller Museum holds some of the most significant fragments of the scrolls, which are considered to be one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century.
Special Exhibitions
The Rockefeller Museum in Jerusalem hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase different aspects of the region’s history and culture. These exhibitions are usually organized in collaboration with other museums or institutions. The topics of these special exhibitions vary widely and can cover anything from ancient art to contemporary photography.
One of the recent special exhibitions at the museum was “A Glimpse of Paradise,” which celebrated 100 years of Armenian ceramic art. The exhibition showcased a collection of rare and beautiful tiles that were produced in the Armenian Quarter of Jerusalem. Visitors could see the intricate designs and motifs that were used in these tiles, which are considered to be some of the finest examples of Armenian ceramics in the world.
Another recent exhibition was “Jerusalem Between Heaven and Earth,” which explored the city’s rich and diverse religious heritage. The exhibition featured artifacts from different faiths, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Visitors could see ancient manuscripts, religious objects, and works of art that reflected the spiritual and cultural significance of Jerusalem.
Educational Programs
The Rockefeller Museum offers various educational programs for visitors of all ages. These programs aim to provide a deeper understanding of the museum’s collections and the rich history of the region.
Guided Tours
The museum offers guided tours led by experienced and knowledgeable guides. These tours are available in English, Hebrew, and Arabic, and can be tailored to the interests and needs of the visitors. The tours cover various aspects of the museum’s collections, including the archaeology, history, and culture of the region. Visitors can learn about the different civilizations that inhabited the region over the centuries, from the Canaanites and Israelites to the Romans and Byzantines.
Workshops and Lectures
The museum also offers workshops and lectures on various topics related to the collections. These programs are designed for both adults and children and provide a hands-on learning experience. Visitors can learn about ancient crafts, such as pottery-making and weaving, or participate in interactive activities that explore the history and culture of the region.
The museum also hosts lectures by leading archaeologists and historians, who share their knowledge and insights with the visitors. These lectures cover a wide range of topics, from the latest discoveries in archaeology to the political and social history of the region.
Overall, the educational programs at the Rockefeller Museum offer a unique and enriching experience for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a history buff, an archaeology enthusiast, or simply curious about the region’s rich heritage, the museum has something to offer.
Visitor Information
Opening Hours
The Rockefeller Museum is open from Sunday to Thursday, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. On Fridays, the museum closes at 1:00 PM, and on Saturdays and holidays, it is closed. Visitors are advised to check the museum’s website for any changes in opening hours due to holidays or special events.
Admission Fees
The admission fee for adults is 30 NIS, and for children, students, and senior citizens, it is 15 NIS. Groups of 30 people or more are eligible for a discount. Admission is free for soldiers in uniform and for children under the age of 5.
Location and Accessibility
The Rockefeller Museum is located at 27 Sultan Suleiman Street in East Jerusalem, near the Damascus Gate. It is easily accessible by public transportation, with a bus stop just outside the museum’s entrance. Visitors can also take a taxi or walk from the Old City.
The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available. However, due to the museum’s historic architecture, some areas may be difficult to navigate for visitors with mobility issues. Visitors with special needs are advised to contact the museum in advance to arrange for assistance.
Overall, the Rockefeller Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Jerusalem. Visitors can expect to see a wide range of artifacts and exhibits from various periods, including ancient pottery, sculptures, and coins. With its convenient location and accessible facilities, the museum is a great choice for tourists and locals alike.
