Plans have been unveiled for a landmark museum dedicated to the baptism of Jesus Christ, set to be built near the historic Jordan River. Seven world-renowned architectural teams have been shortlisted to design this faith-rich and story-led museum, which aims to celebrate the significance of Jesus’ baptism at Bethany Beyond the Jordan (Al-Maghtas).
Scheduled to open in 2030 to coincide with the 2,000th anniversary of Christ’s baptism, the museum will stand beside the UNESCO World Heritage Site widely recognised by Christians as the place where John the Baptist baptised Jesus. The project, endorsed by His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan, is described as one of the most important spiritual and cultural initiatives in the region’s modern history.
Dr Tharwat Al Masalha, chair of the foundation overseeing the project, told Malcom Reading Consultants: “This museum will honour one of the most sacred moments in Christian history. It will be a space for reflection, learning and spiritual preparation for pilgrims visiting the Baptism Site.”
The baptism of Jesus is one of the few Gospel events where the Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit is fully revealed, making this site a place of deep theological importance for Christians worldwide
The new museum will serve as a gateway for pilgrims and tourists, with organisers aiming to attract around 450,000 visitors each year.
Although rooted in the Christian narrative, the museum is designed to be welcoming to people of all faiths and backgrounds. It will feature immersive storytelling, a landscaped garden and interactive exhibits to help visitors experience the spiritual heritage of baptism and renewal.
The international design competition is managed by Malcolm Reading Consultants and supported in part by donors from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Final designs for the Jesus Baptism Museum will be revealed later this year.