Jordan is preparing to mark the 2,000th anniversary of Jesus' baptism at Bethany Beyond the Jordan (Al‑Maghtas) in 2030, launching national preparations and a proposed $100 million reconstruction of a first‑century village. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, venerated since the Byzantine era and visited by three popes, spans more than 1,300 acres and contains five Roman and Byzantine archaeological zones. Excavations resumed after the 1994 Israel‑Jordan peace treaty, and officials hope the commemoration will boost pilgrimage and heritage tourism.
Jordan Plans $100M Project to Mark 2,000th Anniversary of Jesus’ Baptism at Al‑Maghtas in 2030
Jordan is preparing a major commemoration for the 2,000th anniversary of Jesus' baptism at Bethany Beyond the Jordan (Al‑Maghtas) in 2030, the first in a series of Christian milestones that culminate in 2033. Officials say the plans include a large-scale reconstruction project and national preparations to welcome pilgrims and visitors from around the world.
Historic Site and Global Significance
Bethany Beyond the Jordan, also known as Al‑Maghtas, sits on the east bank of the Jordan River and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Venerated since the Byzantine era as the place where John the Baptist baptized Jesus of Nazareth, the site has drawn high-profile visitors including Popes John Paul II, Benedict XVI and Francis. For many Eastern Christians, Al‑Maghtas is a focal point for Epiphany (Theophany) observances each year.
Plans and Preparations
Media reports indicate Jordan aims to raise about $100 million to recreate a first‑century village as part of the 2030 commemorations. The reconstruction is intended to evoke the landscape and daily life of the region in Jesus’ time and to enhance the visitor and pilgrimage experience. In August, Prime Minister Jafar Hassan chaired the first meeting of a national committee charged with coordinating the anniversary preparations, according to Vatican News.
Eastern Christians commemorate Epiphany or Theophany on 19th January each year. Pilgrims from Orthodox Churches attend the Al-Maghtas, known to be the spot on the River Jordan where the baptism of Jesus took place. (Photo by Jordan Pix/Getty Images)
Archaeology and Access
The site was closed to pilgrims and casual visitors after the 1967 Six‑Day War. Systematic archaeological excavations did not resume until 1994, following the Israel‑Jordan peace treaty. Today the UNESCO‑protected area covers more than 1,300 acres and includes five distinct archaeological zones dating to the Roman and Byzantine periods.
Pilgrimage and Cultural Context
Eastern Christian communities observe Epiphany (Theophany) on 19 January, when many Orthodox pilgrims travel to Al‑Maghtas to commemorate the baptism. Jordan's planned anniversary events aim to accommodate increased numbers of international pilgrims and to highlight the site's religious, historical and cultural significance.
Note: Authorities say fundraising, conservation and infrastructure work will be coordinated to preserve the archaeological integrity of the site while improving access and interpretation for visitors.
As plans progress, Jordan is positioning Al‑Maghtas as both a living place of worship and a destination for history, archaeology and faith tourism leading into the 2030 milestone.
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