The Riddle of Jerusalem: Uncovering the Mysteries of the Holy City

How and when did Jerusalem become a holy city, and why was it sanctified by the three Abrahamic religions? What can archaeology tell us about the daily life in Jerusalem two thousand years ago and how did its ancient inhabitants provide water to their city?

In this course, you will survey the archaeological sites of Jerusalem, from Biblical times through the Middle Ages and to the present. Tracing the history of Jerusalem by uncovering its buried past, this course provides an extensive archaeological survey of Jerusalem as the center of three major world religions.

Subjects we will discuss include the evolving city plan and its physical expansion over time, Jerusalem’s social and cultural dimensions, and Jerusalem as a sacred center. During this course, we will also examine the relationship between the physical, social, cultural, and religious dimensions of a city holy to the three major monotheistic religions.

Structure

This course meets various times and days per week, Sunday through Thursday.

Course Components

• Frequent field trips to a number of culturally significant sites in and around Jerusalem
  Please note that the field trips for this course involve extensive walking to ensure immersive learning experiences.
• Supporting readings from texts on Jerusalem
• Class discussions
• Final exam

View the Syllabus

You’ll be invited to participate in a wide array of trips, tours, and activities offered by the Office of Student Life. From a tour of the Old City to a trip to the Dead Sea to checking out the local festivals, you’ll build your own unique impressions and memories of Jerusalem and Israel. While residing in HebrewU dormitories with other international and Israeli students, you’ll have a chance to form new friendships and get involved in campus life. A team of multilingual Israeli students, called madrichim, is also there to help you adjust to your new surroundings and give you tips on things to do. Learn more about student life at HebrewU.

Apply by: May 1, 2025
Arrive on campus: July 28, 2025
Program length: Two weeks

Application fee: US$ 120
Course: US$ 2,200
Housing: US$ 510*

* Depending on availability

Learn more about fees, cost of living, and paying for the program.

Scholarships

A limited number of scholarships based on demonstrated need or merit are available.

Students who complete their summer course application by February 16, 2025, and who also complete payment by March 16, 2025, will be eligible for a 10% early bird discount on the course tuition. In the event that a student applies for more than one summer course, the 10% early bird discount will be applied to one of the summer courses only.

This course is open to undergraduate and graduate students, as well as to mature learners with an academic background. You must be currently registered at or have been accepted to a recognized college or university or have successfully completed at least one year of study at an accredited institution of higher education. English-language fluency is also required.