You’ve likely heard the story of the first Christmas countless times, but have you ever truly delved into its rich historical and cultural context? What did the stable where Mary and Joseph found shelter actually look like? How might the events surrounding Jesus’ birth have unfolded in first-century Bethlehem? The Nativity Tour at Biblical History Center brings the Christmas story to life in ways you’ve never experienced.
This immersive experience invites you to step beyond the familiar narrative, gaining a deeper understanding of the world into which Jesus was born. Through expert guidance, authentic archaeological replicas, and genuine artifacts from the time, the Nativity Tour sheds new light on the miracle of Christmas. Running every Tuesday through Saturday until December 21st, this one-of-a-kind tour offers a journey into the history and significance of the nativity story.
About The Nativity
The nativity is the story of the birth of Jesus Christ, a central event in Christianity that marks the moment God entered the world in human form to bring hope and salvation to humanity. It is a narrative that has been recounted for centuries, emphasizing humility, faith, and divine purpose. Set against the backdrop of first-century Bethlehem, the nativity story begins with Mary and Joseph’s journey, continues with Jesus’ birth in a humble stable, and culminates in the proclamation of this miraculous event to the world.
At its heart, the nativity is a story about simplicity and faith. Mary and Joseph, traveling to Bethlehem for a census, faced significant challenges along the way. With no room available at the inn, they found refuge in a stable, where Mary gave birth to Jesus and laid Him in a manger. This act of humility underscored the idea that greatness often emerges from the most unlikely of places.
The nativity also introduces several key figures and themes:
- The Shepherds: Representing the common people, shepherds were the first to receive the angelic announcement of Jesus’ birth, demonstrating that this moment was for all humanity, regardless of status.
- The Magi: Also known as the Wise Men, they traveled from afar, guided by a star, to honor the newborn King. Their gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh symbolized Jesus’ royal, divine, and sacrificial roles.
- The Angels: Heralds of the good news, angels appeared to proclaim peace and joy, affirming that this birth was a divine act meant to bring salvation to the world.
The nativity story resonates deeply with people of faith. It reflects God’s love, the fulfillment of ancient prophecies, and the promise of redemption. The nativity reminds us of the power of faith, the importance of humility, and the transformative impact of hope.
What to Expect During The Nativity Tours
The tour is led by knowledgeable guides dressed in period-accurate clothing, transporting you back to ancient Bethlehem. These guides provide detailed insights into the cultural, historical, and archaeological elements of the nativity. Learn about the societal challenges Mary and Joseph faced, the symbolism behind the humble manger, and the geopolitical climate of the time.
The Nativity Tour provides a sensory experience that invites you to walk through history. From the sights and sounds to the carefully detailed explanations, every element is designed to bring the nativity story vividly to life.
By the end of the tour, you’ll leave with a richer understanding of the nativity’s significance, its historical backdrop, and its enduring message of hope and light.
Whether you’re a lifelong student of scripture or someone looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season, the Nativity Tour at the Biblical History Center offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Christmas.
Key Tour Details:
Where: Biblical History Center, 130 Gordon Commercial Dr., LaGrange, GA 30240
When: Every Tuesday – Saturday until December 21st, 2024 at 10AM
Tour Length: 1.5 hours without Biblical Meal Experience; 3 hours with Biblical Meal
Admission Without Biblical Meal Experience (Tax Not Included):
- Adults (Ages 13+): $25.88; Children (Ages 6-12): $20.88; Children (Ages 5 & Under): Free
Biblical Meal Experience (Tax Not Included):
- Adults (Ages 13+): $59.88; Children (Ages 6-12): $34.88; Children (Ages 5 & Under): Free
Reservations Required: Contact Biblical History Center at (706) 885-0363
Full-Size Replicas to Transport You to Christmas in Bethlehem
The first hour of The Nativity Tour is spent in Biblical History Center’s Archaeological Replica Garden, which features life-size recreations of structures that were worked in, lived in, shopped in, and even used for entertainment in the time Jesus was born in Bethlehem. Here your guide will focus on the Christmas story, describing everything from Mary’s and Joseph’s arrival to Jesus’ birth. In this special exhibit, you’ll also get a great understanding of what life was like for shepherds and farmers during Biblical times.
Rare Artifacts That Offer a Look Into Days of Yore
The last half-hour of the tour includes access to Biblical History Center’s acclaimed Biblical Life Artifacts Gallery. The gallery currently hosts over 250 artifacts on loan from the Israel Antiquities Authority. Among this prestigious stock of antiquities—which is one of eight such collections worldwide—are pottery items, tools, coins, farming equipment, oil lamps and more. All of these items further help to showcase what life was really like for people before, during and even after Jesus’ birth.
Biblical Bites to Refuel Your Body and Brain*
After walking around the exhibits and soaking up new knowledge on your tour, you’re likely to have worked up an appetite. Biblical History Center offers the option to pair your Nativity Tour with a Biblical Meal Experience consisting of a four-course meal featuring 15 different dishes Biblical people would’ve regularly consumed. This add-on — which needs to be purchased when you make your reservation — focuses on Passover and the Last Supper as opposed to the Christmas story, but offers another excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in a true biblical experience.
*The Biblical Meal Experience is not included in the standard Nativity Tour. If interested, you’ll need to specify you want to add the Biblical Meal Experience when making your reservation.
Reserve Your Nativity Tour Today!
If the Nativity Tour sound like a great experience don’t hesitate to book your reservation today!
