Issued by the Catholic Center for Studies and Media - Jordan. Editor-in-chief Fr. Rif'at Bader - موقع أبونا abouna.org
The historic Italian city of Assisi is set to host the international traveling exhibition "Jordan: The Dawn of Christianity" in early July, following its widely acclaimed run at the Vatican earlier this year.
The exhibition will be held at the Monte Frumentario Palace in cooperation with the Municipality of Assisi.
According to the Jordan Tourism Board, the choice of Assisi carries deep symbolic and spiritual significance. As the birthplace of Saint Francis of Assisi, one of the most revered figures in Christian history and a symbol of peace and interfaith dialogue, the city has long been a major destination for Christian pilgrimage. Each year, over five million pilgrims and visitors travel to Assisi seeking spiritual renewal and reflection.
The exhibition arrives at a particularly meaningful time. The year 2025 marks the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year, declared under the theme "Pilgrims of Hope", a rare holy celebration held once every 25 years. This adds further spiritual weight to the exhibition’s stop in Assisi, aligning with broader religious observances in the global Christian community.
"Jordan: The Dawn of Christianity" highlights the Kingdom’s role as a cradle of early Christianity and as an integral part of the Holy Land. The exhibition seeks to reinforce Jordan’s status as a leading destination for religious tourism and to promote its spiritual heritage to international audiences.
The exhibition features five sites in Jordan officially designated by the Vatican as Christian pilgrimage destinations: The Baptism Site (Bethany beyond the Jordan), Mount Nebo, Our Lady of the Mountain Church in Anjara, Tel Mar Elias, and Machaerus Fortress. The Baptism Site is recognized as one of the holiest places in Christianity and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Jordan Tourism Board noted that Jordan continues to be a focal point for Christian visitors and religious leaders. Among the most notable events was the 2014 visit of the late Pope Francis, who visited the Baptism Site and commended Jordan for its message of peaceful coexistence and interfaith harmony.
The exhibition also underscores the growing importance of religious tourism as a bridge between cultures and a contributor to the national economy. By showcasing Jordan’s sacred sites, the exhibition aims to deepen international understanding of the country’s religious significance and to attract pilgrims and visitors seeking meaningful travel experiences.
More than a cultural showcase, "Jordan: The Dawn of Christianity" is positioned as an invitation to dialogue, reflection, and spiritual connection, where Jordan and Assisi meet in a shared celebration of faith that transcends borders.