Jaffa - Gateway to the Holy Land

Migration and Tolerance - a case study on the ancient harbor

An exhibition from September 27, 2013, to May 18, 2014

Jaffa's harbor is considered one of the oldest in the world, and its significance is reflected in biblical, Ottoman, and modern times. The exhibition depicts the mutual influence of culture and religion in Jaffa—through the eras of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, as well as its destruction in the 20th century.

The temporary exhibition explores the topic presenting archaeological artefacts, biblical and extra-biblical stories and myths associated with Jaffa. These include the myth of Perseus and Andromeda, the biblical stories of the prophet Jonah, and Peter on the roof of Simon the Tanner.

Intercultural and Interreligious

The recent scientific exploration of Jaffa by an international project with Israeli, American, and German participation has shown that there, unlike in other places, intercultural and interreligious exchange can be demonstrated throughout millennia of history. These exciting encounters are vividly portrayed through ancient exhibits, cultural-historical objects, and written documents. These are themes that still concern people today, and whose challenge the exhibition addresses: How can we embrace religious and cultural diversity today?