The W.F. Albright Institute of Archaeological Research in Jerusalem is the oldest American research center for ancient Near Eastern studies in the Middle East. Founded in 1900 as the American School of Oriental Research (ASOR), it was renamed in 1970 after its most distinguished director, William Foxwell Albright. Today the Albright is one of three separately incorporated institutes affiliated with ASOR; the other two are in Amman and Nicosia.
For over a century, the Albright has provided students and scholars with an unparalleled international cultural environment and a unique program that spans the broad spectrum of near eastern studies, from prehistory through the Islamic Periods. Dedicated to advancing the study of the literature, history, and culture of the Near East, the Albright continues to be a vital center for the production of research in those disciplines.