Jordan Times
Thursday, January 20, 2005
Dead Sea museum to open early
2006
By Dalya Dajani
AMMAN — Construction work on a lavish two-storey museum at the Dead Sea is
halfway complete with the building expected to be fully operational early next
year, according to the project's contact engineer.
Samir Jaradat from the Ministry of Tourism said the JD1 million structure,
located 300 metres from Lot's Cave, is on track to be completed by July.
“There was a delay in the project due to cold weather and small modifications
that were introduced to the structure's plans, but otherwise the work is on
schedule,” Jaradat said.
“The main structure is now complete and its exterior is being fitted with
dolomite rock extracted from the surrounding area to allow the museum to blend
in with the environment,” he added.
“Lot's Museum” which has been designed by local architects is a new addition to
the area's diverse range of biblical and historical attractions.
Tourism development planners say the museum will provide visitors with
information concerning the “dazzling topography and unique geological facets of
the area.”
Jaradat said a committee comprising representatives from the Department of
Antiquities, the Tourism Ministry, the Jordan Valley Authority and geological
experts from local universities will be responsible for setting up the museum's
exhibits.
The museum, which covers 2,150 sq. m, includes an exhibition hall, cafeteria,
service facilities, bus and car parks and a tourist police office.