The biblical museum
Archaeological discoveries, artefacts from ancient Egypt, centuries-old models of the temple of Solomon and Herod, religious objects from the Judeo-Christian tradition and even aromas bring Bible stories to life for visitors to the Biblical Museum. It houses a famous 19th-century model of the Tabernacle: a wonderful reconstruction of the sacred shrine housing the Ark of the Covenant, which the Israelites carried with them during their exile in the desert under the leadership of Moses. Displays centred on a model of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem explain the significance of this sacred place in Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Clay tablets, fragments of papyrus and archaeological remains tell the fascinating story of how the Bible came into existence, and the influence it has had on Dutch society through the ages.
A unique museum in a historic setting
The Biblical Museum is housed in two historic buildings on the Herengracht canal in Amsterdam. The renowned architect Philips Vingboons built the houses for Amsterdam merchant Jacob Cromhout in 1662. This remarkable and atmospheric setting provides a home for the unique collection of one of the oldest museums in the Netherlands.
