The exhibition “Jordan: Dawn of Christianity” will debut at the Vatican’s Palazzo della Cancelleria on January 31, offering a profound exploration of Christianity's roots in Jordan.
As Khitam Al Amir explains, organised by Jordan’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in collaboration with the Jordan Tourism Board, the event was officially introduced during a special press conference in Amman on Wednesday.
The highly anticipated exhibition, running until February 28, coincides with two significant milestones: The 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Jordan and the Holy See and the Vatican’s Jubilee Year 2025 celebrations under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope.” Additionally, it aligns with the 60th anniversary of Pope St. Paul VI’s historic visit to Jordan in 1964.
Featuring a curated collection of over 80 artefacts, the immersive exhibition spans millennia, from the 1st century through the Byzantine, Islamic, and Hashemite eras. Accompanied by engaging audiovisual presentations, visitors will journey through 2,000 years of history, witnessing the birth and enduring legacy of Christianity in Jordan.
Celebration of faith and unity
More than a showcase of artifacts, the exhibition is a powerful celebration of Jordan’s spiritual heritage, inviting believers and visitors alike to rediscover its roots of faith, peace, and unity.
The exhibition will transport visitors to some of Jordan’s most significant Christian heritage sites. Central to the journey is Maghtas (The Baptismsite of Jesus Christ), where John the Baptist baptized Jesus, marking the beginning of Christianity. Other featured locations include Mount Nebo, the site of Moses’ final resting place, and Our Lady of the Mountain Church,which commemorates the Virgin Mary.
Visitors will also learn about Tel Mar Elias, the birthplace of the Prophet Elijah, and Machaerus, the fortress where St. John the Baptist was martyred. Through these sacred sites, the exhibition illustrates Jordan’s vital role in preserving Christian history, offering pilgrims and visitors a transformative glimpse into the spiritual and historical essence of the region.
Jordan, home to a Christian minority comprising approximately 4 per cent of its 11 million citizens, is celebrated for its deep religious significance and legacy as a beacon of coexistence and cultural preservation in the Middle East.
With this landmark exhibition, the Vatican invites pilgrims and visitors to embark on a transformative journey, bridging history and faith through the lens of Jordan’s sacred landscapes and stories.
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