The Holy Land Experience had its origins in the dream of Marvin Rosenthal, a Russian-Jewish man who later became a Baptist pastor. He founded the missionary organization Zion's Hope and purchased land in Orlando in 1989. The park opened its doors in February 2001, offering a recreation of ancient Jerusalem and 1st-century Judaea.
The Holy Land Experience Scriptorium museum opened in August 2002. It showcased the Van Kampen Collection, which included ancient scrolls, manuscripts, and early printed editions of the Bible. The collection, founded by Robert and Judith Van Kampen, was the fourth largest of its kind.
In June 2007, the Trinity Broadcasting Network, or TBN, purchased the park for an estimated $37 million. Under their ownership, the park underwent construction and additions, including new landscaping, exhibits, restaurants, theaters, and the Church of All Nations auditorium, which opened in 2012.
As a non-denominational Christian living biblical museum and church, the Holy Land Experience conducted weekly church services and bible studies for the general public. The park aimed to provide an immersive experience for visitors, offering a variety of exhibits, live performances, and presentations.
Despite its mission, the park faced its share of controversies. The Jewish Defense League accused the park of proselytizing Jews due to its connection with Zion's Hope, a missionary organization. Additionally, the park fought a legal battle for tax exemption, which was ultimately granted in 2005.
Unfortunately, the park struggled financially in its later years. In February 2020, the Holy Land Experience announced massive layoffs and the closure of its theatrical productions, restaurants, and retail shops. The property was eventually sold to AdventHealth in August 2021, which plans to redevelop the land for a new hospital.
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