What Are the Dead Sea Scrolls and Why Are They So Important?

The Scrolls are widely acknowledged to be among the greatest archaeological treasures linking us to the ancient Middle East, and to the formative years of Judaism and Christianity. We explore the full history of the Dead Sea Scrolls through the expertise of Dr. Risa Levitt Kohn from San Diego State (the exhibit curator and a biblical scholar), Dr. David Freedman (the endowed chair in Hebrew Biblical Studies at UCSD), and Dr. Russell Fuller from USD, a member of the international team of editors of the Dead Sea Scrolls.

How the Scrolls Were Discovered

We take a look at how the scrolls were discovered, and how they were saved. And we take you on a virtual reality “walk-through” tour of the Scrolls’ discovery site in the late 1940s and 1950s and see the abandoned fort nestled in the caves of Qumran. This virtual reality tour will be shown in the Natural History Museum’s theatre during the exhibit.

Getting Ready: Museum Preparations

The Natural History Museum is undergoing extensive changes to prepare for this world-renowned exhibit – not only to anticipate the expected crowds but also to care for and maintain the fragile nature of the scrolls themselves. We explore such things as the critical air conditioning systems being put in place, what security measures will be taken to protect this international treasure trove, the “time ticketing” system, and the actual building of the exhibit room. We’ll also look at the manmade cave which will be part of the exhibit itself.

Special Promotions and Economic Impact

The Dead Sea Scrolls exhibit will attract thousands of visitors from around the world. Museum coordinators have set a target of 400,000 visitors throughout the six-month exhibit span. We speak with the Convention and Visitors Bureau to measure the economic impact this will have on not only San Diego, but the region as well. We’ll also look at what specialties are available to mark the event – such as Mediterranean-spiced chocolates from Chuao Chocolatier, authentic Mediterranean meals, and innovative gifts in the gift shop.

Air Dates