Finalist (Studio Anne Holtrop), Jordan International Design Competition

Studio Anne Holtrop was selected as one of seven finalists in an international competition for the Museum of the Baptism of Jesus, planned for the town of Bethany in Jordan.

Studio Anne Holtrop (Bahrain / Netherlands)

With Landscape Design – Atelier Miething and Mazen Daqaq; Exhibition Design –Imagination; Engineering – Atkins Réalis; and Lighting Consultant – Rogier van der Heide.

Our proposal for the Museum of Jesus’ Baptism is situated within a landscape ofpristine wilderness. Its setting preserves the natural environment, reflecting the site’s spiritual and historical significance, and aligns with the protected status of thesurrounding area.

The museum is not conceived as a discrete structure placed upon the site; rather, it takes the form of a single, expansive roof that follows the natural topography. The spatial concept is defined by two main elements: the subtle shaping of the landscape to create distinct spatial experiences, and the careful curation of light and shadow inresponse to the programmatic needs.

The landscape design honors the site’s symbolic wilderness while enhancing it in understated ways. A tree nursery bridges cultivated and native environments, supporting plant research and transplantation. Green corridors link the museum withthe pilgrimage path, offering shade and framing key views. The existing wilderness is preserved to highlight resilient vegetation, natural water management, and the raw climatic character of the site.