The founder of the Biblical Museum was Leendert Schouten (1828-1905), a theological student in Utrecht, who started collecting at the age of 12 and opened the museum in 1851. The museum takes the Bible as its starting point for an exploration in objects, images, and placements of biblical geography and history.

The building

Many visit the Biblical Museum simply for the two adjoining canal houses on the Herengracht that accommodate it. Built in 1660-1662 by the renowned Dutch architect Philip Vingboons, they also feature stunning early 18th-century ceiling paintings by Jacob de Wit. They were designed according to the style of Dutch classicism and contain many important historic and architectural features. Among these are two 17th-century kitchens, the oldest of which is one of the best preserved old kitchens in Holland. Behind the Biblical Museum is a large garden containing biblical plants and a pond - an oasis of peace in the center of the city.

The collection

Archaeological finds, artifacts from ancient Egypt, religious objects from the Jewish and Christian traditions, and even certain fragrances help the visitor become acquainted with the stories and people of the Bible. The collection brings to life the world of the Ancient Near East, where the stories of the Bible took root thousands of years ago. Schouten's model of the Tabernacle is a well-known feature of the museum, a fine reconstruction of the portable sanctuary that the Israelites built under Moses' leadership during their years in the desert. Clay tablets, pieces of papyrus and valuable, unique Bibles all witness to the Bible's fascinating development. Prints and cards, some in brilliant colors, demonstrate the love and care with which the Dutch have produced and cherished their Holy Scriptures over the centuries.

Location

Biblical Museum

Herengracht 366-368

1016 CH Amsterdam

More information
www.bijbelsmuseum.nl