Bible Museum in DC Showcases Ancient Christian Mosaic from Northern Israel

A remarkable ancient mosaic, hidden for centuries in Megiddo, northern Israel, has found its way to Washington, D.C., where it is now on display at the Museum of the Bible. Discovered in 2005 during an expansion of a local prison, this mosaic—believed to date back to around the year 230—offers a rare glimpse into early Christian history.

At the exhibit’s opening, Carlos Campo, CEO of the Museum of the Bible, described the mosaic as a symbol of unity, comparing its intricate design to the art of Impressionism. “As I step back, I learn more about the power of this object and what it’s trying to say about ancient history, Christianity, and Israel,” Campo told attendees. He also highlighted the mosaic’s craftsmanship, noting that the artist, Brutius, left his name inscribed—a rare occurrence in Roman mosaics.

The mosaic features geometric patterns, an illustration of two fish, and an early mention of the name of Jesus. Scholars believe the fish may symbolize Christianity, making this mosaic one of the earliest known examples of Christian art. Curators have described the discovery as “the greatest since the Dead Sea Scrolls.”

The mosaic, which is on display until July 2025, will eventually return to Israel to be permanently installed in Megiddo. Gil Lin, head of the Megiddo Regional Council, emphasized the mosaic’s importance: “For billions worldwide, it’s not merely an artifact but a tangible link to shared history, tradition, and faith.”

The exhibit also offers visitors a tactile experience, allowing them to handle stones similar to those used in the mosaic. Though some central stones are replicas, they represent what scholars believe was once the base of a table, possibly used during Christian Communion.

Alegre Savariego, curator at the Israel Antiquities Authority, highlighted the mosaic’s significance. It not only predates Christianity’s rise within the Roman Empire but also includes rare mentions of women, though their roles remain uncertain. “You will have one [woman named] sometimes, but not four,” Savariego noted. The artist’s signature, another unique feature, marks Brutius as one of only about 100 mosaic artists in the Roman Empire to sign their work.

Eliav Benjamin, deputy chief of mission at the Israeli embassy in Washington, underscored the artifact’s significance, noting how it reflects the deep connections shared across nations and faiths. He also pointed out the exhibit’s timing, coinciding with the Jewish High Holidays, when fish, a symbol in the mosaic, represent new beginnings in Jewish tradition.

The discovery of the Megiddo Mosaic sheds light on the complex interactions between Jews, Christians, and Muslims in the ancient Holy Land. Savariego, also involved in curating the nearby exhibit "The People of the Land," stressed the importance of presenting Israel’s history through archaeology, especially in an often-misrepresented region. “We do have history, even if they don’t like it,” she said. “You cannot erase history.”

For visitors, the exhibit offers a chance to witness an extraordinary piece of early Christian history, now shared with the world in the heart of Washington, D.C.

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