Ancient Megiddo Mosaic Makes US Debut at the Museum of the Bible

Washington, D.C. – In a move hailed as the “greatest discovery since the Dead Sea Scrolls,” a stunning nearly 1,800-year-old mosaic from Megiddo, Israel, is captivating audiences at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C. The exhibit, “The Megiddo Mosaic: Foundations of Faith,” opened on September 15th, 2024, offering a rare glimpse into early Christianity.

Discovered in 2005 during a prison expansion project, the meticulously crafted mosaic lay hidden for centuries. Featuring intricate geometric patterns, two fish (a symbol of early Christianity), and a remarkably early inscription mentioning Jesus written in ancient Greek, the mosaic provides tangible evidence of a thriving early Christian community.

“This object really is a way for us to come together,” shared Carlos Campo, CEO of the Museum of the Bible. “These tiny little tesserae, these beautiful pieces when placed together—they tell a remarkable story of unity.”

The mosaic’s significance is amplified by several unique features:

• Early Mention of Jesus: Predating the Roman Empire’s embrace of Christianity, the inscription referencing Jesus is only the second of its kind ever discovered.
• Named Female Figures: Four women are identified in the mosaic, a highly unusual occurrence potentially signifying their martyrdom or importance within the early Church.
• Artist’s Signature: The inscription “Brutius has carried out the work” offers a rare glimpse into the identity and skill of the mosaic’s creator.

The exhibition, a collaboration with the Israel Antiquities Authority, tells a more profound story than just artistry.

“We found the name of Jesus before Christianity was part of the Roman empire,” stated Alegre Savariego, curator of the Rockefeller collection and mosaics at the Israel Antiquities Authority. The mosaic, she explained, challenges the often-distorted narrative surrounding Israel’s history, highlighting the peaceful coexistence of Jews, Christians, and Muslims in the region for centuries.

“We are not colonizers,” Savariego emphasized. “We do have history, even if they don’t like it, we do have it.”

The Megiddo mosaic, displayed in its near entirety (with the central section represented by a replica), offers a captivating window into the lives and beliefs of early Christians. After its Washington debut, the priceless artifact will return to its home in Megiddo, where a dedicated space will showcase its significance to future generations.

“The Megiddo mosaic represents the most significant archaeological find since the Dead Sea Scrolls,” declared Gil Lin, Head of the Megiddo Regional Council. “This mosaic… is the earliest known house of prayer and the first physical proclamation of Jesus Christ as God.”

“The Megiddo Mosaic: Foundations of Faith” is on view at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, D.C., until July 6, 2025.