Research and Education
The history of the German Protestant Institute of Archaeology in the Holy Land (GPIA) dates back to the 19th century. In spite of deep crises during the two World Wars it has developed today into a lively institute with scientific excavations and numerous projects. Part of this is the exploration of the Tall Zira’a and the corresponding “Gadara Region Project” as well as the archaeological park below the Church of the Redeemer. The excavation below the Church of the Redeemer exhibits and presents under the motto “Through the Ages” the work of the GPIA in Jerusalem and attracts thousands of visitors a year. Presently the institute explores through an excavation on Mount Zion the area around the Essene Gate and the city from the time of the kingdom of Israel.