The Jordanian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities announced the organization of a historical exhibition in the Vatican titled Jordan: Dawn of Christianity." This exhibition is the first of its kind and aims to explore the origins of Christianity in Jordan.

The exhibition will be held from January 31 to February 28, showcasing more than 90 unique artifacts ranging from intricate mosaics to ancient symbols. The exhibition takes visitors on an exceptional journey to explore the most significant holy sites in Jordan, representing key stations in the Christian pilgrimage route. Among these sites are Tell Mar Elias, the Church of the Mountain in Anjara commemorating the Virgin Mary, Mount Nebo where the tomb of Prophet Moses is located, the fortress of Al-maghtas where John the Baptist was martyred, and the baptism site of Jesus Christ at Al-Maghtas.

Jordanian Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Lina Annab emphasized in a press conference held in Amman that the exhibition, organized in cooperation with the Vatican, represents an exceptional event marking 30 years of diplomatic relations between Jordan and the Vatican. The event coincides with the celebrations of the Jubilee of Hope 2025.

Annab added that one of the most prominent displayed artifacts is the fish symbol, which is one of the rarest symbols in the history of Christianity. She stressed that the exhibition is an open invitation to the world to discover the history of religions in Jordan and contributes to enhancing the country's status as a leading destination for Christian pilgrimage.

The Papal Nuncio

Archbishop Giovanni Pietro Dal Toso, the first Papal Nuncio in Jordan, confirmed that the "exhibition will help redefine the world's awareness of Christianity in Jordan." He pointed out that "many are unaware of the Christian community's existence in the kingdom." Dal Toso reviewed the development of diplomatic relations between the Vatican and Jordan since Pope Paul VI's historic visit in 1964. He emphasized that there are several reasons for the Vatican's interest in Jordan, foremost of which is the central role it plays in the region.

Dal Toso also announced that the organization of the exhibition follows the celebration of the inauguration and consecration of the Church of the Baptism of Jesus Christ at the Al-Maghtas site under the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem. The event will be presided over tomorrow by the Secretary of State of the Vatican and Pope Francis's personal envoy, Cardinal Pietro Parolin.

Abdul Razzaq Arabiyat, Director General of the Jordan Tourism Board, stated that the exhibition will offer an interactive experience for visitors. He confirmed that there are plans to move the exhibition to other locations in France, Portugal, and Greece to enhance cultural ties between Jordan and the world.

Organizers expect the exhibition to attract millions of visitors from around the world, who will be able to enter the exhibition by registering in advance on the designated website for this purpose.