The Palestine Exploration Fund

The PEF was founded in 1865 and is the oldest organization in the world created specifically for the study of the Levant, the southern portion of which was conventionally known as ‘Palestine’. The PEF is a major bridge and information resource for the public and academic community.

The PEF constitution

It publishes an internationally respected journal, the Palestine Exploration Quarterly, and brings the latest archaeological results and research to the public in a series of regular lectures. The PEF promotes ongoing research through annual grants to scholars across the world.

The PEF archives hold over 40,000 photographs of Palestine, Jordan and Syria taken from 1850 onwards. The PEF collections also include archaeological artefacts, natural history specimens, maps, manuscripts, and paintings. Our unparalleled library attracts scholars from around the world. These facilities are available to our members for research, study, and publication purposes.

An earlier version of the PEF website can still be accessed at http://www.pef.org.uk/oldsite

Lectures notice: Please note that from March 2011, due to rescheduling arrangements at the British Museum, the PEF lectures at the British Museum will start at 4pm (replacing the prior 6pm start time). We apologise for any inconvenience. Please go to our lectures pages for further details.

Current office hours for visits and enquiries

Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays: 10.30am to 4.00pm
Tuesdays: 10.30am to 5.30pm
Fridays: 10.30am to 1.00pm

If you would like to visit the PEF, please make an appointment in advance by contacting Felicity Cobbing at execsec@pef.org.uk 

Christmas and New Year

Closed on the 14th Dec.
Open 10 to 2pm 17th – 21st Dec
From the 24th Dec to the 7th Jan inclusive
Re open on 8th Jan

Disclaimer: The articles and illustrations appearing on the PEF’s website are sanctioned for use on this website only. Any use of such material by an outside party must receive permission from the PEF and the author in question.