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An archaeological garden dubbed “Peace be within thy Palaces – Jerusalem Antiquities at the Israel Knesset” was recently opened at the Israel Knesset. The garden, open to the public, will serve as a retreat from the bustling activities of the Knesset. Entry is free upon prior arrangement with the Knesset.

The exhibition is divided into six different enclosures that range in date from the Second Temple period until the Ottoman period. At each station a special historical-archaeological story is displayed that characterizes Jerusalem by means of archaeological exhibits which illustrate each period and breathe new life into the history of Jerusalem.

The fifty architectural artifacts in the garden, almost all of which are being shown for the first time, impart a broad picture of the architectural construction in Jerusalem over the years, some of which is even documented in written sources. A few of the buildings or their remains constitute an inseparable part of the city’s fabric in the present. All of the exhibits were discovered in surveys and in archaeological excavations that were begun in the nineteenth century and continue to this very day.

The artifacts underwent extensive conservation treatment by experts of the Israel Antiquities Authority and some of them are very heavy, necessitating cranes and trucks in order to build the garden. The heaviest item – a stone from the Temple Mount wall from the Second Temple period – weighs five tons. Also on display is an olive press, ancient inscriptions, large impressive mosaics and a large Ottoman sabil (drinking installation).

The visitor’s path allows convenient access for the handicapped. The flora was selected in accordance with the different parts of the garden and includes plants that are characteristic of the Land of Israel in ancient times.