Rockefeller Archeological Museum, Jerusalem

About 250 meters east of Herod's Gate, this museum owes its existence to a generous donation made in 1927 by the American oil tycoon John D. Rockefeller. Designed by British architect Austin Harrison, its striking white-stone building follows Neo-Gothic architectural principles, with decorative motifs inspired by Byzantine and Islamic styles, surrounding a central courtyard. Once hailed as one of the foremost museums in the Middle East, it was the first to systematically collect artifacts from the Holy Land. While now a branch of the Israel Museum, it still boasts an impressive collection.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibits at their own pace, ideally following a clockwise direction. Upon entering, the South Octagon unveils a remarkable statue of Ramses III (1186-55 BC), the sole example of Egyptian monumental sculpture discovered in Israel and Palestine. Moving through the South Gallery reveals captivating finds such as the Galilee Skull, dating back to the Lower Paleolithic period (circa 200,000 BC), alongside Stone Age tools and intriguing plaster-covered skulls covered with shell eyes and painted pupils. Transitioning into the Bronze Age and biblical period, visitors encounter figurines, alabaster and ceramic vessels, cutlery, and jewelry.

The South Room presents intricately carved wooden panels from Al-Aqsa Mosque, likely crafted in Byzantine style by Coptic Christian artisans. Continuing into the West Hall, standouts include artifacts from Hisham's Palace in Jericho, many reconstructed from stucco fragments dislodged during the 747 AD earthquake that razed the palace. Notable among these are various human heads and figures predating Islam's prohibition on representational art.

Journeying into the North Room reveals Crusader-era pieces, including two 12th-century lintels from the Church of the Holy Sepulchre entrance, symbolizing opposing forces of good and evil. Meanwhile, the North Gallery holds Phoenician-style Megiddo Ivories, including one believed by some to depict King Solomon. Among other fascinating exhibits is a trepanned skull from the 7th century BC. The museum’s final room, the Tower Hall, houses Greco-Roman statuary and ancient Canaanite deities.

Tip:
Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of Mount Scopus and the Old City from the museum's grounds.