The Oriental Institute is a research division of the University of Chicago devoted to the study of the languages, history, culture and archaeology of the ancient Middle East. Its Museum contains one of the world's most comprehensive collections of artifacts from Egypt, Nubia, Turkey, Iraq, Iran, Syria, Israel and Palestine. Temporary exhibits highlight otherwise unseen objects from the collection and the current research of the Oriental Institute. The Institute offers a wide variety of public programs, films, lectures, and activities for families, students, and adults.