The Dead Sea Scrolls come to the Franklin Institute

On May 12th, 2012, the Franklin Institute will be opening the newest exhibit in partnership with Israel Antiquities Authority. The Dead Sea Scrolls were first discovered in 1947 by a shepherd boy in a hidden cave along the shores of the Dead Sea. These scrolls were found to be ancient texts that had been lost for over 2,000 years. Once excavated, 972 scrolls were found in remarkable condition, which included some of the earliest Biblical texts ever discovered. These scrolls have been deemed the “most significant archaeological find of the last century.”

The Franklin Institute will be exhibiting one of the most in-depth collections of ancient artifacts directly from Israel. This exhibit features more than 600 items on display, including the oldest known copy of the Hebrew Bible and four never-before-seen scrolls depicting traditions, beliefs and iconic objects from more than 2,000 years ago. Also included in this exhibit are an actual three-ton stone directly from Jerusalem’s Western Wall and many other artifacts from Jerusalem’s City of David. This comprehensive collection creates a window into the culture and beliefs of ancient Israel over thousands of years.

This once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit will be available until October 14, 2012. Adult admission is $31.50 and children ages 3-11 are $25.00. (Please note that this also grants admission to the Franklin Institute Museum.) Tickets are on sale now, so don’t miss your chance to see it.