The Holy Land Experience

Theme park · Millenia

1

@atlasobscura

"At Orlando’s Holy Land Experience, Jesus is crucified daily for your viewing pleasure. This sprawling theme park, owned and operated by the Trinity Broadcasting Network, was founded as a non-profit corporation with the mission to create “a living, biblical museum that takes you 7000 miles away and 2000 years back in time to the land of the Bible.” All features of the park are touted as “exact replicas” of the way they would have been found during 1st century Judea. Debates about the indeterminate nature of said authenticity aside, these models of major sites from the New and Old Testament were designed with enough intricate detail to provide visitors with a clear understanding of their historic and religious significance. Pilgrims to the park roam through a profusion of temples, a model of Jerusalem itself, the Qumran Dead Sea Caves, the Wilderness Tabernacle, and the Garden Tomb from which Jesus resurrected.  A visit to the Holy Land Experience is designed to be extremely participatory. Between traditional Bible studies classes, depictions of 1st century shopping at the Old Scroll Shop, sharing communion with Jesus’ disciples at a recreation of The Last Supper, particularly gory reenactments of the crucifixion, and performances by the “Century musical team”,  there’s something to interpellate everyone.  Rather than leaving such wanderings as provenance of the mind, the Holy Land Experience allows the devout to explore the birthplace of Christianity as it appeared back in the day in a physical sense that may be as close as anyone is going to get… at least until the Good Lord delivers that time machine we’ve all been praying for." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

The Best of Weird Florida
Flickr user DeaPeaJay (Creative Commons)

4655 Vineland Rd, Orlando, FL 32811 Get directions

1 Postcard

See full details

More Places For You

Universal Orlando Resort

Theme park · Turkey Lake

Universal Studios is a vibrant, action-packed theme park where movie magic intersects with thrilling rides, enchanting shows, and delightful dining options.

11 Postcards

Otto’s High Dive

Restaurant · Colonialtown South

Otto's High Dive is a stylish rum bar in Orlando's Milk District, serving elevated Cuban cuisine and creative cocktails in a cozy atmosphere.

12 Postcards

Aloft Orlando Downtown

Hotel · Carolina Florida

Aloft Orlando Downtown blends sleek, modern rooms with a warm staff, a lively bar scene, and prime access to local attractions and events.

3 Postcards

Grand Bohemian Orlando, Autograph Collection

Hotel · Downtown Orlando

At the Grand Bohemian Hotel Orlando, chic decor meets superb service, featuring an art gallery, rooftop pool, and a buzz-worthy restaurant perfect for brunch or a night out in downtown.

2 Postcards

Kadence

Sushi restaurant · Coytown

Kadence is an intimate, reservations-only gem in Central Florida serving exquisite multi-course sushi with fresh ingredients and a relaxed vibe.

16 Postcards

Orlando Museum of Art

Art museum · Lake Formosa

At the Orlando Museum of Art, a stylish modern hub, you’ll find an exciting mix of American and international artworks alongside a rotating collection of dynamic exhibits.

2 Postcards

Strong Water Tavern

Restaurant · Turkey Lake

Strong Water Tavern at Sapphire Falls serves up delicious rum cocktails and Caribbean-inspired small plates in a chill, island-inspired vibe.

2 Postcards

Orlando Farmers' Market

Farmers' market · South Eola

Every Sunday, the Orlando Farmers Market at Lake Eola offers a vibrant mix of local crafts, eclectic food vendors, and a delightful, family-friendly atmosphere by the water.

1 Postcard

Reyes Mezcaleria

Mexican restaurant · Central Business District

Dive into a vibrant blend of regional Mexican flavors and an impressive tequila-mezcal selection in a beautifully modern setting perfect for any occasion.

6 Postcards

The Monroe

Restaurant · Orlando

Small plates, hearty mains & drinks in a chic locale that has modern furnishings & classic accents.

5 Postcards