Very good exhibits of archaeology, give context to some of the probable objects and culture that the Israelis may have used and lived in during the different bible time periods. Good snapshot overview of ancient history whether religious or not. Strongly recommend audio guide app. Allow more time, our visit was a tad rushed.
The Bible Lands Museum Jerusalem
The Bible Lands Museum prides itself on being the only history museum in the world that documents the development of civilization from the biblical point of view. Focusing on the cultures of the Ancient Near East, the museum holds one of the world’s most fascinating collections of antiques and archaeological treasures that span history from the dawn of civilization through the rise of Christianity and the Talmudic period, ranging from the prehistoric period to the Mishna and Talmud period.
Permanent exhibitions
See the Bible stories with your own eyes. The museum’s 21 galleries present a chronological journey through the early civilizations of the ancient Near East. You will find statues, rare artifacts, jewelry, inscriptions, mosaics and pottery vessels from ancient Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Greece and Rome. In addition, the museum has a Roman Fresco Room where you will find an impressive collection of beautiful Roman frescos from the villas of Boscotrecase, a suburb of Pompeii, which were preserved under lava for centuries.
Alternating exhibitions
In the Valley of David and Goliath
A rare insight straight into the stories of the Bible. This exhibition reveals the recently unearthed archaeological finds of the mysterious city “Sha’araim” from the times of King David. Come to discover unusual cultic shrines, a tiny model of King Solomon’s Temple in Jerusalem and what might be the oldest Hebrew writing to ever be discovered. Closing date: September 9, 2017.
Jerusalem In Babylon: New light on the Judean Exiles
Following the success of By the Rivers of Babylon exhibition, this new exhibition presents the original Al-Yahudu (Judea City) tablets. The tablets contain documents that reveal the story of more than 20 different Jewish settlements in Babylon with names, cities, customs and even business contracts and tax reports.
Gods, Heroes and Mortals in Ancient Greece
Discover a spectacular collection of ancient Greek pottery that dates back 4000 years. This exhibition revives ancient Greek mythology through its manifestation in Greek culture and everyday life, from the Middle Bronze Age until the Classical period. Come to hear and watch the stories of Zeus, Hercules and Achilles as they emerge from Ancient Greek pottery. Glance into the everyday culture of Athens and other legendary Greek cities through decorated oil and wine containers, small jars and pots.
Conferences & Events at the Bible Lands Museum
Besides the unique biblical story, the museum is also known for its beautiful and original event venues. Whether you’re interested in organizing a lecture or celebrating a wedding, the museum has 6 different venues and locations that can accommodate any event of any type. One of the most exclusive options is incorporating the historical experience, offered by the museum, into your event program by means of interactive tours for children and adults around the museum – perfect for bar/bat mitzvahs!
If you’re looking for a professional place to host your conference, lecture, seminar, or even a ceremony, the museum’s auditorium has everything you’ll need. With 230 seats, this luxurious auditorium offers the hosts the best noise-blocking sound system, a laptop, a 3200 LMS projector, stage wash, speaker’s podium, presidential table, diplomas’ desk, dressing room, and even a grand piano! However, if your event is of a smaller size, the museum can offer its well-equipped “small theatre” space, which can accommodate up to 64 guests.
In addition, the museum has an elegant event venue for up to 330 guests, ideal for product launches, cocktail parties and winter weddings. Your guests will adore the beautiful and authentic Jerusalem stone pavement combined with a classic-modern setting. In the summer, the museum offers its absolutely magical “Seven Species” garden for private events, musical concerts and unforgettable bar/bat mitzvahs.
Photos: Courtesy of the Bible Landa Museum and Oded Antman
Admission Fees
Adult – 44 ILS
Child(5-18)/student/soldier/disabled/Oleh Chadash/senior – 22 ILS
Non-Israeli seniors – 35 ILS
*Free admission for children on Wednesdays after 4 pm and on Saturdays!
TripAdvisor Reviews
Based on 222 traveler reviewsNew
“Worth the time”
The Bible Lands Museum hosts artifacts from the Middle East dating back to around 3,500 BCE up through the early Christian Era. For those who may have gotten confused by its name, the Bible Lands Museum is not a Museum about the history of the Bible. To the contrary, most of the artifacts...
MoreThe Bible Lands Museum hosts artifacts from the Middle East dating back to around 3,500 BCE up through the early Christian Era. For those who may have gotten confused by its name, the Bible Lands Museum is not a Museum about the history of the Bible. To the contrary, most of the artifacts attempt to show life in the ancient Middle East. In some cases, the exhibits try to tie artifacts to bible passages. The museum is relatively small and can be seen over a few hours. The exhibits are presented chronologically, starting with humans as hunter gathers. For anyone interested in ancient Middle East culture, it is a must see. The entry fee is 44 NIS or roughly $12 US. There is a small refreshment area.
Less“Bible Lands Museum”
Went to this private museum to see a relatively new exhibit it was hosting: In the Valley of David and Goliath. This exhibit recorded and presented the archaeological discoveries on the tel of an ancient garrison town called Shaarayim (Two Gates) which I had explored a couple of years ago. What makes this town...
MoreWent to this private museum to see a relatively new exhibit it was hosting: In the Valley of David and Goliath. This exhibit recorded and presented the archaeological discoveries on the tel of an ancient garrison town called Shaarayim (Two Gates) which I had explored a couple of years ago. What makes this town so unusual were its two gates. Also it was used for a relatively short period of time. Located in the Ella Valley its job was to protect the approach to Jerusalem from the southwest. In short, it was especially meaningful for me to visit this exhibit after having hiked in the area that was being documented.
Less“Allow more time- very good”