December, 2008
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) funded a project for the rehabilitation and development of the Hisham’s Palace archeological site in Jericho, the oldest city in the world. The Palace, which is located 3 kilometers north of Jericho, is regarded as the most important monument from the early Islamic period in Palestine.
The site is named after Hisham Bin Abdil Malik, an Islamic Caliph from the Omayyad dynasty who ruled over 1,300 years ago andwas destroyed in 747 by an earthquake. Historians believe that it was used as a hunting place for the Caliph and his friends during hunting seasons. Others believe that it was meant to be a winter place for the Caliph due to the warm weather of the Jordan Valley.
The project included creating a museum that provides a unique chance for visitors to view ancient pieces found at the site while preserving them by displaying them on shelves covered with glass. The project also improved services provided to the visitors including restrooms, better parking facilities, and access to the site for people with special needs.
The half-kilometer access road and 15 m long architectural bridge designed after the Nuw’meh Bridge destroyed more than 100 years ago were also rehabilitated. The design of the bridge is meant to give visitors of the site a flavor of the past, yet in modern standards. The project also added signs on the road leading to the Palace to provide better directions to the Jericho visitors.
Mr. Khamis, a former English teacher who currently works as a ticketing officer at Hisham’s Palace said, “I have been working here for years; I never saw the site in such good shape. Today, I see the Palace as a bride shining in her white dress.” Khamis added, “Prior to USAID’s project, the site looked gloomy and neglected. The intervention of USAID revitalized the site and made it more attractive to visitors. I used to see visitors coming here and staying for less than 10 minutes and leave. Today, they stop and visit the site with happiness and curiosity to learn more about it.”
Abu-Arafat worked at Hisham’s Palace 25 years ago. Upon returning after the renovations, he said “I am very happy to see the drastic change that was made possible by USAID. Now visitors can see proper signage and the pathways. They can learn about this distinctive palace from the information posted on the signs that exist in various locations of the Palace.”
The work was done in close cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and the Municipality of Jericho. “I expect that the project will increase the number of the visitors to the site, and that will have a positive impact on the economy of the city. Thanks to USAID’s intervention.” said the Mayor of Jericho.
The restoration and construction works at Hisham’s palace produced approximately 1,500 employment days, providing work in a region where jobs are very scarce. |
