The city is proud to present the new Hasmonean Heritage Musuem in the city center. Presenting the story of the Hasmoneans in a multi-sensory and interactive experience, the museum has opened to the general public.
Many archeological finds have been found in the Modi'in area, revealing its rich and glorious historical past, from which one can learn about the existence of developing Jewish life, in an area that has been active for thousands of years.
The establishment of the museum in the city center creates a connection between the modern, contemporary city, and the ancient city. The museum, established in collaboration with the Municipality of Modiin Maccabim Reut, the Israel Antiquities Authority, the Ministry of Jerusalem and Heritage and the Government Tourism Company, displays more than 150 antique exhibits that tell the story of this locality. These items were uncovered in archaeological digs throughout Modiin, some with the participation of city residents and students.
On display are diverse antiquities dated over many centuries. There is an ossuary bearing an Aramaic inscription, written in black ink, indicating the name Shimon ben Elazar, a common name in Jewish society during the Second Temple period. There are wall decorations (frescoes) from the ancient Hasmonean synagogue decorated with a marble-like pattern identical to the decoration of the wealthy houses in the upper city of Jerusalem, where the priestly families lived during the Second Temple period.
Visitors to the museum will enjoy a guided tour, entrance to an interactive room that includes four experiential sessions and entrance to the 3D futuristic adventure movie in the “time tunnel”.
Haim Bibas, Mayor of Modi'in: "The words 'in those days at this time' takes on real significance with the opening of the Hasmonean Heritage Museum, which takes its place with pride on the local and national level. It shines a unique spotlight on the exciting period of the Hasmoneans from ancient times to the modern day, and to our developing city.
"I am proud that just before Hanukkah, we are opening this special museum for residents and visitors, here on the boulevard in our developing city center, alongside restaurants, pubs and shops that together create a vibrant and fun city center."
Shimon Guetta, holder of the Heritage and Tourism portfolio: "The opening of the Hasmonean Heritage Museum in Modi'in is a great source of pride. After years of planning work as part of a master plan for tourism and heritage, I am happy and excited to open and inaugurate the Hasmonean Heritage Museum.”
The museum will take part in Heritage Week - an annual Israeli event to encourage citizens to become acquainted with their national heritage, and which is celebrated this year during the Chanuka holiday. Heritage Week is led by the Ministry of Jerusalem and Heritage, the Israel Antiquities Authority, the Nature and Parks Authority, the National Library, the Council for the Preservation of Sites and Yad Ben Zvi.
To purchase tickets on the museum's website - here at the link
