Explorations in Antiquity Center

Explorations in Antiquity Center is at 130 Gordon Commercial Dr. and provides visitors with an opportunity to view artifacts and replicas dating from about 2500 B.C.E. to 500 C.E. mostly from Israel and with a biblical focus. In the Archeological Garden view replicas of an Israeli village, including a goat hair tent, a grain silo, a grape press, a Roman theater, sheepfolds, stables and tombs.

There are 250 artifacts on loan from the Israel Antiquities Authority in the Biblical Life Artifacts Gallery. On display are items from the Roman and Byzantine periods as well as exhibits with tools used by farmers, fishermen and shepherds. A stone sarcophagus also can be seen. The Time Tunnel showcases a Byzantine church, a Canaanite temple, an Israeli shrine and a Jewish synagogue.

The center hosts special programs, including four-course biblical meals held in one of two rooms, re-creations of ones found in Pompeii and Herculaneum. Activities include bread making in the shepherd’s tent and an archeological dig for kids where participants learn the rules of excavating and interpreting artifacts.

Guided tours are available. Food is available. Time: Allow 1 hour, 30 minutes minimum.