Opened on November 17, 2017, the Museum of the Bible is an educational institution with a global purpose to invite all people and engage with the Bible’s transformative power. The museum itself is one of the most technologically advanced and engaging museums in the world. Only two blocks from the National Mall, the museum showcases an unparalleled range of artifacts representing 4,000 years of history. Guests are provided with an immersive and personalized experience with the Bible and its ongoing impact on the world today.

Complementing the collections of the Museum of the Bible are cooperative agreements with other institutions such as the Israel Antiquities Authority and the Vatican Museums and Vatican Library. These collaborations provide guests an unrivaled opportunity to connect with biblical artifacts and materials.

When you enter through the museum’s main entrance, you are greeted by a stunning grand hall with monumental Jerusalem stone columns and lighted displays on the 40-foot-high, 140-foot-long ceiling. The first-floor houses long-term exhibits, including manuscripts and other treasures from the Vatican Museums and Vatican Library. Take a virtual reality tour of the Land of the Bible and climb the stairs to the Temple Mount and soar over the Sea of Galilee.

On the second floor, discover the impact of the Bible on American culture from the first settlers to the 21st century. Learn about the Bible’s influence worldwide in film, music, literature, fashion, and government. Be dazzled by a multi-sensory tour of biblical references in and around Washington, D.C.

The third level explores the world of Jesus of Nazareth as you immerse yourself in first-century Nazareth and learn about the context of Jesus’ teachings and experience the village’s cultural and social dynamics. Watch the New Testament unfold in a 270-degree theater and see how the followers of Jesus grew into a thriving community. Experience the Hebrew Bible, including stories of Noah’s ark, the burning bush, and the Passover.

The fourth-floor showcases over 600 historical artifacts, including ancient coins, Torah scrolls, New Testament manuscripts, and rare Bibles. Then take a drive through the History of Bible Theater featuring places and events of the Bible in preparation for discovering the Bible’s history. Enjoy a Bible reading room and explore the ever-increasing accessibility of the Bible through Bible translations.

On the fifth level, view fascinating archaeological discoveries from the Israel Antiquities Authority and learn more about life in ancient Israel. Take in biblical narratives and performances at the 472-seat World Stage Theater.

On the sixth floor, enjoy Mediterranean and seasonal cuisine at the Manna restaurant. Be sure to catch the best views of Washington, D.C., from the glass-enclosed promenade. Then take a stroll in the biblical rooftop garden featuring plants mentioned throughout the Bible.

The museum has also reached over half a million people through traveling exhibits around the country and internationally. Education in history, narrative, and the impact of the Bible is of great importance no matter what age. The Museum of the Bible also engages in academic research around the world, including excavations. The Scholars Initiative fosters biblical research in colleges, universities, and seminaries and supports the Bible’s languages and material culture.

Learn more at museumofthebible.org.

Photos: Museum of the Bible. © Museum of the Bible, 2016.

==> And read Discover Bible Facts.

==> Also read The Power of One.