Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures

The Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures, West Asia & North Africa (ISAC), located at the University of Chicago, is a premier research center and museum dedicated to ancient Near Eastern studies. Established in 1919 by Egyptologist James Henry Breasted, it houses an impressive collection of artifacts from significant archaeological sites across Egypt, Israel, Syria, Turkey, Iraq, and Iran. Notable pieces include the Megiddo Ivories and a colossal Lamassu statue. The institute offers free admission to its museum, which showcases these treasures, and serves as a hub for ongoing research and education in ancient civilizations. Recently renamed from the Oriental Institute to better reflect its focus, ISAC continues to contribute to the understanding of the origins of human civilization, making it a must-visit for tourists and researchers alike.