It is my dream to create an open-air archaeological museum on the African continent that will surely be a world-class facility for all international guests. The goal of the open-air archaeological museum is to educate people concerning the history and culture of biblical times. Visitors will have the opportunity to view the artefacts from 2400 B.C.E to the Roman Era (the time of Jesus). The various strata in the dig will reflect the different periods in Israel’s history, with replicas of pots, shards, ancient dye vat, beehives, coins, etc., plus many items that reflect Israel’s history in the land. The museum also demonstrates to visitors the kind of work that archaeologists do in Israel. They spend their days studying artefacts and trying to piece the past together. 

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Construction Updates: March 2020

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Our model construction of a city gate at the Salem open-air archaeological museum is almost completed. Thanks to Stephanie Reith for painting the ancient city gates in the time of the biblical city of Ai.  

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What is the significance of a city gate in the Bible?

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Besides being part of a city’s protection against invaders, city gates were places of central activity in biblical times. It was at the city gates that important business transactions were made, court was convened, and public announcements were heralded. Accordingly, it is natural that the Bible frequently speaks of “sitting in the gate” or of the activities that took place at the gate. An example is found in the book of Ruth. In Ruth 4:1-11, Boaz officially claimed the position of kinsman-redeemer by meeting with the city elders at the gate of Bethlehem. There, the legal matters related to his marriage to Ruth were settled.

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Have a beautiful day.

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Mike, “The Digger” John.

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