The exhibition takes passengers on a journey through the history of the people of Israel – a story of strength, challenges, upheavals, and revival, spanning thousands of years and illustrating the power of the people’s renewal.
This new exhibition, the result of the joint efforts of the Israel Antiquities Authority, the Airports Authority and the Israel Ministry of Heritage, will be on display along the airport’s exit passage through January 2026. The Eternity of Israel is supported by the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust.
Sandor Frankel, a Trustee of the Helmsley Charitable Trust, said, “A milestone for Israel’s cultural preservation efforts, this new exhibition from the Israel Antiquities Authority highlights the storied history of Israel and its people in a blend of archaeology and photography. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about Israeli life and the nation’s rich cultural history that spans thousands of years.”
The exhibition showcases breathtaking photographs from archaeological sites and from significant moments of discovery during excavation. Each photograph encapsulates a uniquely inspiring moment or special site, as captured by the camera lens. In addition to these powerful photographs, original and rare archaeological findings are on display, bearing witness to different periods in the history of the Jewish People.
The exhibition enables the visitor to form impressions from items, such as agricultural tools from a Hasmonean-era farm uncovered near Mount Arbel and displayed here for the first time; a Hasmonean coin hoard found in the desert; physical evidence to the name “Ahab,” the famous king of northern Israel; an original Western Wall stone weighing 5 tons; and weapons of long-gone conquerors.
Each photo and finding features a QR code that allows passengers to access videos filmed at the excavation areas, providing the opportunity to experience the discoveries in singular moments. In addition, the exhibition displays models of important archaeological findings in the country’s history, which visitors will be invited to touch.
The exhibition was unveiled in February by Former Israel Minister of Heritage Amichai Eliyahu, Israel Antiquities Authority Director Eli Escusido, and the National Airport Authority of Israel Managing Director, Udi Bar-Oz.
Galit Litani, exhibition curator on behalf of the Israel Antiquities Authority, said, “The Eternity of Israel exhibition seeks to convey the powerful vitality of the Jewish People, and how they cleave to their land. We wanted to create an experience that combines the worlds of archaeology, history and culture, and gives travellers a glimpse into our people’s history, as reflected through the findings.”
Former Minister of Heritage, MK Amichai Eliyahu, said, “It is not without cause that this exhibition is set up precisely in these days, as we face national challenges and security challenges. The exhibition reminds us all of our deep roots and the Jewish People’s uncompromising commitment to their country and heritage. Exposing visitors to the eternity of the Jewish People against the background of recent events strengthens the spirit of all peoples and conveys a message of strength and hope to future generations.”
Eli Escusido, Director General of the Israel Antiquities Authority, said, “Ben Gurion Airport is the main entry and exit gate of the State of Israel”. In these times of fake news and anti-Semitism, here the hundreds of thousands of travellers from Israel and the world will meet the Jewish People’s unique story. Through the Eternity of Israel exhibition, we seek to provide an exciting connective experience that reminds every one of the depths of the roots and the eternal connection between the people of Israel and this land.”
Udi Bar Oz, Ben Gurion Airport Director General, said, “This is a unique project in Israel. This is the first time that passengers arriving and departing the country will view authentic finds alongside spectacular photos. The display is already arousing great interest. Many people are stopping to look at the rare and impressive finds on display, which are a testimony to the glorious history of the people of Israel.”
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