Activity Sector

The activity sector reflects the focus areas within the Start Learning Cities Up platform.

• Culture
• Lifelong Learning
• Environmental Sustainability and Education

Start and End Date of the Initiative

Ongoing activities. The newly opened Museum has been offering morning, afternoon, and evening activities, lectures, and workshops since it opened to the public two years ago.

Location (i.e., city, Region, State) of the Initiative

Modiin, Israel

Project Summary

The Heritage Museum in Modiin, managed by the Multi-Disciplinary Center, narrates the story of Modiin, from the Hasmonean era through various historical periods up to the establishment of the modern city. The museum aims to bridge the contemporary city with its ancient roots, revealing the rich historical sites and sources of the region that inspired its creation.

The museum exemplifies the Learning City model by offering a variety of educational experiences for visitors of all ages, embracing a holistic approach to education. It promotes cultural diversity, anthropology, and fosters critical thinking and problem-solving by presenting visitors with real-world challenges or historical dilemmas. The museum creates learning opportunities outside traditional classrooms, preserving the community’s cultural identity and strengthening connections to their heritage.

The museum also hosts a diverse range of lectures, workshops, and activities, providing a personal connection between the past and present while enriching cultural knowledge with intriguing content. Examples include connecting biblical stories to modern debates, exploring coffee ceremonies across cultures, and hands-on workshops in ancient art and technology led by professionals.

The Modiin Heritage Conference is another unique event in Israel, linking academia, archaeology, history, and heritage with the community in Modi’in-Maccabim-Reut. It highlights the connection between the ancient city’s glorious past and the rapidly developing modern city. The conference also showcases new discoveries and academic research on heritage and preservation models.

Description of Needs to be Met by the Project

To enhance hands-on learning experiences for all ages, teach cultural diversity and anthropology, and encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The project aims to connect the past with the present, enriching both individuals and the community.

Description of Activities

A wide range of learning experiences designed to enrich the community’s knowledge of heritage, history, and cultural identity, connecting past and present for future benefit. The Annual Heritage Conference shares recent discoveries and research findings with the public, focusing on the local environment and its rich history.

• Exhibitions
• Experiential workshops
• Tours and guided visits
• Lectures
• Special events and programs

Objectives

General Objective:

• Provide learning experiences that enrich knowledge of history, heritage, and culture, while strengthening the community’s connection to their city and its surroundings.

Specific Objectives:

• Foster social connections and cohesion within the community, expanding learning opportunities throughout the city. Create additional platforms for professionals to offer lectures and workshops related to relevant fields.

Recipients of the Intervention

• The entire community, including all age groups.

Expected Results

• Attract a diverse audience to the museum, encouraging locals and visitors alike to engage with the museum, transforming it from a static exhibit into a vibrant hub for learning and community gathering.

Immediate Results (i.e., output) after the Start of the Project and for Whom

• The museum has already attracted many visitors and hosted dozens of learning and artistic activities, workshops, and lectures, receiving positive feedback from attendees.

Expected Long-term Impact (i.e., outcome) of the Initiative

• The museum is expected to become a cornerstone of the city in various aspects, including tourism, lifelong learning, and economic development.

Third Sector Actors

• None

Public Actors

• Relevant Council Member, in charge of Business & Entrepreneurship – Supporting and promoting the initiative, providing assistance and involvement.
• Municipality Spokesperson Department – Advertising events, promoting publications, and creating articles on initiatives.
• Government Offices – Providing support and consultancy.

Project Cost

• €185,500.00

Funding Sources

• Municipality of Modi’in Maccabim Re’ut

Funding Bodies

• Municipality of Modi’in Maccabim Re’ut

Funding Year

Approximately yearly budget allocated by the local authority.