A groundbreaking exhibition titled "Eternity of Israel" has taken center stage at Ben Gurion Airport's Terminal 3 Departures Hall, offering travelers a rare and captivating glimpse into Israel’s ancient past. This awe-inspiring display, inaugurated on Wednesday, immerses visitors in the rich tapestry of Jewish history, showcasing archaeological treasures that span over three millennia.

The exhibition is a collaborative effort spearheaded by the Israel Antiquities Authority, the Israel Airports Authority, and the Ministry of Heritage, with generous support from the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust. Through a carefully curated collection of artifacts and breathtaking photographs of excavation sites, the exhibition tells the story of a resilient people whose roots are deeply embedded in the land of Israel.

לתשומת לב הטסים: במיוחד עכשיו, תערוכה יוצאת דופן בנתב"ג לוקחת את הנוסעים למסע מרגש בתולדות עם ישראל >>>

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A Portal to the Past: Unveiling Ancient Wonders

The heart of the exhibition lies in its ability to transport visitors through time. Among the standout exhibits are:

• A treasure trove of Hasmonean coins—a silent testament to the struggle for Jewish independence during the second century BCE.
• Agricultural tools from a Hasmonean-era farm near Arbel, shedding light on the everyday lives of Jewish farmers over 2,000 years ago.
• A massive five-ton stone from the Temple Mount, an enduring relic of the spiritual and national heart of the Jewish people.
• An inscribed artifact bearing the name “Ahab”, connecting the exhibition to biblical history and ancient Israelite monarchs.
• Weapons from ancient battles, echoing the fierce resilience of Jewish warriors throughout history.

Visitors are not just spectators; they are active participants in this historical voyage. Each exhibit is accompanied by a barcode, granting access to exclusive videos filmed at the excavation sites, enriching the experience with expert insights and in-depth explorations of the discoveries.

A Powerful Message in a Time of Challenge

As travelers pass through Israel’s primary gateway, the exhibition serves as more than just a display of historical artifacts—it is a profound statement of continuity, resilience, and unwavering identity. Eli Eskosido, Director of the Israel Antiquities Authority, emphasized the exhibition’s significance in today’s world:

"Ben Gurion Airport is the main gateway in and out of the State of Israel. In an era of fake news and rising anti-Semitism, this exhibition ensures that hundreds of thousands of travelers—both local and international—are exposed to the unique, undeniable story of the Jewish people. Through these artifacts, we offer an experience that reinforces the deep historical roots and the eternal connection between the people of Israel and this land."

Amichai Eliyahu, a member of Knesset and former Minister of Heritage, echoed this sentiment:

"This exhibition is more than just a collection of artifacts—it is our story. A story of endurance, triumph over adversity, and an unbroken bond with our homeland. The entrance gate to the State of Israel proudly tells a narrative that gives us strength to move forward. In these complex and challenging times, the exhibition’s name—Eternity of Israel—stands as a powerful reminder of our enduring legacy."

Itai Grank, Director General of the Ministry of Heritage, underscored the relevance of this exhibition in the face of contemporary global discourse:

"The Eternity of Israel exhibition is a tangible testament to the deep and unshakable connection between the Jewish people and their land. At a time when the world is exposed to Israel’s complex realities, it is more crucial than ever to present the fascinating historical continuum of our people, as documented in these archaeological finds."

A First-of-Its-Kind Experience at Ben Gurion Airport

Never before has Ben Gurion Airport hosted an exhibition of this magnitude in its Departures Hall. Udi Bar Oz, Director of the airport, highlighted the exhibition’s unique impact:

"This is a pioneering project, unlike anything previously displayed at the airport. Authentic archaeological finds are presented alongside stunning, high-resolution photographs of excavation sites. The response has been overwhelming, with countless travelers pausing to marvel at these rare and remarkable artifacts—living evidence of Israel’s glorious history."

Galit Litani, the exhibition’s curator on behalf of the Israel Antiquities Authority, spoke passionately about the vision behind the display:

"Our goal with Eternity of Israel was to convey the vibrancy of Jewish history and the deep-rooted connection between the people and their land. We sought to create an experience that seamlessly integrates archaeology, history, and culture, giving travelers a rare opportunity to witness the past come alive."

A Limited-Time Opportunity to Witness History

The Eternity of Israel exhibition will remain on display at Ben Gurion Airport’s Departures Hall until the end of 2025, providing millions of visitors with a once-in-a-lifetime chance to encounter tangible proof of the Jewish people’s long-standing presence in the Land of Israel.

For those embarking on journeys near and far, this exhibition serves as a powerful reminder: The story of Israel is not merely one of the past—it is a living narrative, woven into the very fabric of the present and the promise of the future.