Dead Sea Scrolls Museum

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A museum dedicated to displaying replicas and information about the historic Dead Sea Scrolls, ancient biblical manuscripts discovered near Qumran. Visitors gain deep understanding of early Jewish and Christian texts and their archaeological significance.

Things to do

• Examine Scroll Replicas — Study high-quality reproductions of actual Dead Sea Scrolls including portions of biblical texts, community rules, and religious commentaries displayed in climate-controlled cases.
• View the Qumran Archaeological Exhibition — Explore detailed exhibits about the Qumran settlement where the scrolls were discovered, including pottery shards, tools, and reconstructions of ancient caves.
• Watch Documentary Films — Attend screenings about the discovery of the scrolls in 1947, their authentication process, and their significance to understanding early Judaism and Christianity.
• Attend Guided Scholarly Lectures — Participate in presentations by archaeologists and biblical scholars explaining the historical context and translation of specific scroll fragments.
• Visit the Museum Shop — Browse books, educational materials, and souvenirs related to the scrolls and ancient Judean history.
• Explore the Ancient Jericho Site — Walk through nearby Tel es-Sultan, one of the world's oldest cities, located approximately 2 kilometers from the museum.

Food to try

• Maklouba — A traditional Palestinian rice and vegetable dish cooked in one pot with meat, then flipped upside-down onto a plate, commonly served in Jericho restaurants.
• Za'atar Bread — Flatbread drizzled with olive oil and dusted with the aromatic za'atar spice blend of sesame, thyme, and sumac, a staple in the West Bank region.
• Hummus with Lamb Meat — Creamy chickpea puree topped with warm spiced lamb, pine nuts, and olive oil, a hearty variant popular in Jericho establishments.
• Falafel Sandwich — Deep-fried balls or patties of ground chickpeas and spices served in pita bread with tahini sauce and fresh vegetables, a quick local favorite.
• Dates from Jericho Valley — Fresh or dried dates from the nearby Jordan Valley, known for their sweetness and quality, often served with coffee or as a snack.

Local customs & good to know

• Remove Shoes in Certain Areas — Some displays and prayer spaces require removal of footwear as a sign of respect for the sacred nature of the texts and their religious significance.
• Learn Hebrew and Aramaic Context — Familiarize yourself with basic knowledge that the scrolls are primarily written in Hebrew and Aramaic, not modern languages, enhancing appreciation of translation displays.
• Dress Modestly — Wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious sensitivity of the artifacts and the conservative cultural norms of the Jericho area.
• Allow Ample Time for Reading — Plan to spend 2-3 hours at the museum as thorough understanding of the scrolls' historical and religious context requires careful reading of detailed explanatory panels.