The model of Second Temple-era Jerusalem, recently relocated to a spectacular new home next to the Shrine of the Book at the Israel Museum – itself recently refurbished – has made these two sites companion pieces illuminating the time of Jesus.

Home of the Dead Sea Scrolls discovered at Qumran, the Shrine of the Book is considered a landmark of twentieth-century museum architecture. Thus, it seemed natural to reinstall the Second Temple model – depicting Jerusalem at the height of its architectural glory – next to the Shrine at the Israel Museum. A corridor links the two sites, emphasizing that together they have much to teach visitors about the period that witnessed both the building and destruction of the Second Temple, and the ministry of Jesus.

The 1:50 model’s new setting gives visitors excellent new perspectives that grant a true idea of the city’s ancient grandeur. A short film, screened in the new 80-seat Dorot Center auditorium, follows an acolyte at Qumran and a young priest in Jerusalem. Like the shrine and the model, it is a valuable tool in helping Christians ponder the ministry of Jesus against the backdrop of this tumultuous period.