The Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C., signed an Aug. 1 agreement with Jordan's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities to host "Jordan: Dawn of Christianity," an international exhibit tracing key biblical sites in modern-day Jordan. Ambassador Dina Kawar signed on behalf of the ministry, alongside museum President and CEO Dr. Carlos Campo.
"We are excited to share the importance of locations in Jordan and their ties to stories from the Bible," Campo said in an exclusive interview with Christian Daily International. He added that the museum expects the exhibit to encourage visitors to view Jordan as "a country full of history and deep significance."
The exhibit, which was previously shown at the Vatican and later in Assisi, Italy, features a collection of rare archaeological artifacts tracing the history of Christianity in Jordan from its earliest beginnings to the present day, according to an announcement by the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in Washington D.C. on social media.
Sites represented include Bethany Beyond the Jordan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site identified as the baptism site of Jesus Christ; Machaerus, associated with John the Baptist; Umm Qais; the ancient churches of Rehab; the Aqaba Church, regarded as one of the world's earliest purpose-built churches; the churches of Petra; Um er-Rasas, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site; and Madaba, known for its mosaic heritage.
Among the items featured will be a replica of the Madaba Map, a historic pilgrimage guide used to direct travelers along routes associated with biblical events. "This pilgrimage map served as a roadmap for walking the path of those individuals who are in the Bible," Campo said. He noted the exhibit is intended to inspire visitors to see the original map at St. George's Church in Madaba and explore other locations it highlights.
In addition to displaying artifacts, it will offer educational programming centered on Jordanian history and the care of Christian pilgrimage sites.
Beyond the exhibit itself, the museum framed the project as a broader effort to strengthen cultural and historical cooperation. "We see this as more than just a partnership with Jordan," Campo said. "We see it as an opportunity for our countries to work together and highlight the deep, rich archaeological history that supports the Bible."
The exhibit also aligns with Jordan's preparations for the global commemoration of the 2,000th anniversary of the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist, a milestone that is expected to draw international attention to Bethany Beyond the Jordan, also known as Al-Maghtas.
Campo said the museum will highlight John the Baptist's role in Jesus' early ministry, including the site of Machaerus, where John the Baptist was killed. "This archaeological site is one of the best-preserved sites directly connected to the Bible anywhere," he said.
Media access is expected to be available, with the museum saying members of the press are always welcome to visit its exhibitions. Campo also indicated that U.S. officials may show interest in attending, describing the partnership as "an important connection between our two countries."
The exhibit is expected to open during the first quarter of 2027. Campo said visitors should plan to attend from that period through the summer.
The museum anticipates large public engagement, estimating tens of thousands of visitors will come to learn — many for the first time — about how Jordan has helped preserve significant biblical sites.
