La Storia Tourism Complex (Al Hakaya Museum) | Madaba

La Storia Tourism Complex (also known as Al Hakaya Museum) is a multi-faceted heritage and cultural center located near Mount Nebo in Jordan. It serves as a pedagogical and recreational site designed to illustrate Jordan's religious and historical evolution through large-scale dioramas and ethnographic displays.

Visual Characteristics

The complex consists of modern stone buildings integrated into the hillside. The interior is characterized by extensive walk-through galleries containing life-sized wax figures, hand-crafted models, and mechanical dioramas. These exhibits depict biblical events, traditional Bedouin life, and the construction of Jordan’s major historical landmarks. The exterior includes a large paved plaza, stone-walled courtyards, and a panoramic viewing area.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is situated on Al Quds Street (Mount Nebo Road), approximately 7 kilometers west of Madaba and 2 kilometers east of the Mount Nebo summit. It is positioned on the main tourist corridor between Madaba and the Dead Sea. Access is via private vehicle or taxi; a large designated parking area is located on-site for cars and tour buses. Public transport is unavailable to this specific location.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Opened in 2013, the complex was established as a private initiative to complement the archaeological sites of Madaba and Mount Nebo. It aims to bridge the gap between ancient ruins and living history by providing a visual narrative of the region's heritage, focusing on the coexistence of religious traditions and the preservation of craft techniques that are becoming obsolete.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can follow a chronological path through the museum, viewing the "Jordan Through the Ages" exhibit and the detailed model of the Ark of the Covenant. The complex features an artisan workshop area where traditional mosaic making and woodcarving are demonstrated. The "Religious Path" section provides a visual overview of the prophets and historical religious movements associated with the Levant.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The facility includes a large cafeteria and restaurant capable of hosting groups, a gift shop specializing in local handicrafts, and public restrooms. The site is equipped with 4G/5G cellular coverage. It is designed with level flooring and ramps, making it accessible to those with limited mobility. The complex often serves as a logistical stop for tour groups traveling between Amman and the Dead Sea.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is typically open daily from 09:00 to 17:00. As the primary exhibits are indoors and climate-controlled, it is an optimal destination during extreme weather conditions (high summer or winter). Visiting during the late morning allows for a combined trip to the nearby Mount Nebo summit when visibility is often highest.

Facts & Legends

The complex houses what is claimed to be one of the largest wooden models of Noah's Ark in the Middle East. While not an archaeological site itself, it utilizes traditional building materials and craft methods to replicate historical artifacts, serving as a repository for the region's intangible cultural heritage and storytelling traditions.

Nearby Landmarks

Memorial Church of Moses (Mount Nebo) – 2.0km West

Moses Spring (Ayoun Musa) – 1.8km North

Madaba Archaeological Park – 7.2km East

St. George’s Greek Orthodox Church – 7.5km East

Khirbet al-Mukhayyat – 4.5km Southwest