A forest fire erupted in Jerusalem’s Valley of the Cross on Sunday, prompting the evacuation of the nearby Israel Museum as a precautionary measure. The blaze, battled by eight firefighting planes and 23 firefighting crews, occurred amid scorching temperatures of 34 degrees Celsius.
Fortunately, the museum spokesperson confirmed that while the roof of a youth building suffered damage, the fire was swiftly brought “under control,” and no archaeological or artistic artifacts were harmed. Importantly, neither the nearby Monastery of the Cross nor the Knesset building faced any imminent danger.
The Monastery of the Cross, dating back to the 11th century, holds religious significance as it is believed to mark the location where the tree used for the cross on which Jesus was crucified was cut down.
Although the Israel Museum, renowned for its archaeological, Judaica, and art collections, including the iconic Dead Sea Scrolls, faced a momentary threat, no lasting damage was reported, ensuring the preservation of these invaluable historical treasures despite the Fire Break at Jerusalem’s Valley of the Cross.
