Additional Information

Available Through

Cambridge Core

Language

English

Notes

Mamilla cemetery was one of the largest and most important Muslim cemeteries in Jerusalem. The plans to build a “Museum of Tolerance” in it led to heated protests and a prolonged legal procedure in Israel’s Supreme Court of Justice. In 2008, the court approved the plans and many hundreds of graves were exhumed. Through the available sources, including the court’s archival files, we discuss political, legal, and archaeological aspects of this case, focusing on ethics about cemeteries and descendant communities. The discussion shows that the Israel Antiquities Authority breached the court orders and that the treatment of the archaeological remains was biased. “Their” graves were destroyed, and the bones reburied in secret, while “our” remains in the same areas were carefully excavated and preserved. Tolerance to “our” heritage at the expense of “theirs” is intolerance.

Taxonomies

RPA Codes & Standards

• Adequate Preparation for Research Projects
• Archaeologist's Responsibility to the Public
• Integrity of Research Methodology
• Maintaining Continuity of Records

CIfA Codes

• Principle 1: Adherence to ethical and responsible behaviour in archaeological affairs
• Principle 2: Responsibility for the conservation of the historic environment
• Principle 3: Responsibility for acquiring and recording reliable information of the past in archaeological research
• Principle 5: Recognition of aspirations of employees, colleagues and helpers in all matters of employment

Keywords & Terms

• Accountability
• Adequate and Responsible Reporting, Publication, and Dissemination
• Adequate Preparation
• Armed Conflict and Violence
• Avoid, Discourage, and Report Unethical and Illegal Activity
• Burials and Human Remains
• Conflicts of Interest
• Conservation
• Do No Harm
• Equity and Representation; Discrimination and Harassment
• General Archaeological Ethics
• Impact on Communities - Local, Descendant, etc.
• Management of Cultural Resources, Heritage, History
• Preservation of Archaeological Resources
• Stewardship

Topics & Issues

• Colonialism and Imperialism
• Conservation and Ethics
• Descendant, Resident, and Stakeholder Communities
• Destruction of Cultural Heritage
• Ethical Case Studies
• Ethical Dilemmas
• Ethical Responsibilities of Archaeologists
• Heritage Management
• Human Remains and Ethical Practice
• Legislation and Archaeological Preservation
• Professionalism and Professional Standards
• Public Engagement, Outreach, and Education