New museum highlights Christian presence in the Old City

By ELISA MOED/ TRAVELUJA
04/17/2011

A little known, off the beaten path, museum focusing on the historic Christian presence in the Holy Land brings a new dimension and rich diversity to the Jerusalem cultural scene. The Wujoud museum, situated within the walls of the Old City, in the Christian Quarter has slowly been making its presence known in this multi-cultural city and cradle of faith. With so many cultural offerings in Jerusalem, there has yet to be a place specifically focused on the Christian presence in the Old City, which is what the new Wujoud museum offers.

Wujoud, which means existence, is set within a 650 year old building owned by the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate, situated in the heart of the Christian Quarter. Built during the Marmeluke period, the building was recently renovated and includes lovely verandas and view points, including a setting overlooking one of the Old City’s ancient dry pools, Hezekiah’s pool. After two years of rehabilitation the center opened in May 2010 and has welcomed groups from all denominations.

Founder Nora Kort, who started the organization over 20 years ago, explained to Travelujah that the mission of the museum is to showcase the Christian communities presence in the Holy Land and how it has remained a part and parcel of the fabric of the city.

“The fact that Christians have been here since ancient times is often overlooked”, explained museum founder Nora Kort, herself a member of the Greek Orthodox community.

Nora personally meets groups at the museum and speaks about the Christian presence in the Holy Land. The center offers light breakfasts and lunches that are prepared by local Christian womens groups.

“We are working to bring beauty and life into the Old City. The ‘living stones’ are more important than the ‘dead’ stones,” she said referring to Christians who lived here long ago. “People can come here to meet people and listen to shared stories.”

The mission of the center is to be a cultural meeting point in the Old City, not just for Christians but for all denominations.

“Culture brings peace and reconciliation amongst people”, Nora says, ” Humanity transcends all borders.”

The Wujoud Cultural Center and museum can be visited by appointment. The facility can fit 120 people and the cultural center can seat up to 70 people. Meals can be prearranged. For further information contact nkort1@bezeqint.net

Elisa Moed is the CEO of Travelujah, the leading Christian social network focused on connecting Christians to the Holy Land. People can learn, plan and share their Holy Land tour and travel experiences on Travelujah.

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