Terra Sancta Museum – Christian Archaeology in Jerusalem

Archaeological exhibits at the Terra Sancta Museum in Jerusalem.

Overview

The Terra Sancta Museum is a Franciscan initiative located along the Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem’s Old City, within the Monastery of the Flagellation. It is dedicated to Christian archaeology, history, liturgy, and art, weaving together biblical narratives and tangible heritage.

The museum is structured in multiple wings: a multimedia section (opened 2016) re-enacts 2,000 years of Holy Land history in 15 minutes; an Archaeological section (opened 2018) displays finds unearthed by the Studium Biblicum Franciscanum; and a Historical / Art & History section under construction in the Saint Saviour Monastery, slated for future completion.

Cultural and Community Role

Managed by the Franciscan Custody of the Holy Land and supported by Pro Terra Sancta, this museum is a bridge between faith, archaeology, and education.

It serves both pilgrims and scholars, preserving Christian heritage in Jerusalem and fostering interreligious dialogue. Through its educational outreach programs and heritage initiatives, it also engages local youth, strengthening connection to historical roots.

What to Experience

View a dramatized multimedia timeline of Jerusalem’s Christian history.

Walk through archaeological exhibits of pottery, coins, mosaic fragments, and relics.

Experience exhibitions that link Gospel stories to tangible finds.

Participate in guided or audio tours in multiple languages.

Visitor Information

Location: Monastery of the Flagellation, Via Dolorosa, Old City, Jerusalem

Hours: Summer (Apr–Sep) 09:00–18:00  Winter (Oct–Mar) 09:00–17:00

Contact: reservation@terrasanctamuseum.org | +972 2-627-6572

Entry: Regular 15 NIS; Reduced 10 NIS; Combined pass 20 NIS

Note: Free for children under 12, school groups, guides, journalists, and people with disabilities.