Dead Sea Scrolls Are Coming To Denver

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The regional premiere of this exhibition is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see authentic Dead Sea Scrolls, ancient manuscripts that include the oldest known Biblical documents dating back over 2,000 years. The scrolls will be dramatically presented within a massive exhibit case featuring carefully regulated individual chambers, along with the full English translation.

In addition, the largest collection of artifacts from the Holy Land ever assembled for display will allow guests to explore the traditions, beliefs and iconic objects of ancient Israel that continue to impact world cultures today. The hundreds of objects include inscriptions and seals, weapons, stone carvings, terra cotta figurines, remains of religious symbols, coins, shoes, textiles, mosaics, ceramics and jewelry.

The experience features a re-creation of the Western Wall from the old city of Jerusalem with an actual three-ton stone from the wall believed to have fallen in 70 BCE. Guests may leave their handwritten notes with prayers that will be sent to Israel and placed at the wall. The tradition of putting notes between the stones began centuries ago.

The Dead Sea Scrolls represent one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. In 1947, a Bedouin goat herder stumbled upon a hidden cave along the shore of the Dead Sea, near the site of the ancient settlement of Qumran. Concealed within the cave were scrolls that had not been seen for 2,000 years. After extensive excavation, 972 remarkably preserved scrolls were uncovered, leading to decades of extraordinary scrutiny, debate and awe. 

"This extraordinary opportunity brings our community face-to-face with real documents that are not only central to some of the world's major religions but also to the origins of Western civilization," said George Sparks, President and CEO of the Museum.

"Sturm Family Foundation is honored to help bring these world heritage artifacts to Denver," said Don Sturm, founder of the Sturm Family Foundation.

"The Dead Sea Scrolls" is organized by the Israeli Antiquities Authority (IAA).  

About the Denver Museum of Nature & Science

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is the Rocky Mountain Region's leading resource for informal science education. Our mission is to be catalyst and ignite the community's passion for nature and science. The Museum envisions an empowered community that loves, understands, and protects our natural world. As such, a variety of engaging exhibits, discussions and activities help Museum visitors celebrate and understand the wonders of Colorado, Earth, and the universe. The Museum is located at 2001 Colorado Blvd., Denver, CO, 80205. To learn more about the Museum, visit dmns.org, or call 303-370-6000. Many of the Museum's educational programs and exhibits are made possible in part by the citizens of the seven-county metro area through the Scientific & Cultural Facilities District. The Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums. Connect with the Museum on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

CONTACT
Denver Museum of Nature & Science
Maura O'Neal
[email protected] 
303.370.6407

SOURCE Denver Museum of Nature & Science