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Sacred Places Opens at McWane Science Center on Saturday, February 1st!

Sacred Places, developed by The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, features images, artifacts, and stories depicting more than two dozen sites that are sacred within different cultures. Through immersive experiences and object displays visitors will encounter the stories of young guides who describe how they feel, what they do, and what they experience when they visit their sacred places.

To accompany the exhibit, McWane Science Center’s Education Department has developed new programming to showcase how STEM concepts, such as geology and architecture, can be connected to these iconic sites.

Wat Arun in

Bangkok, Thailand


Visitors will explore Wat Arun, one of the most remarkable temples in Thailand and one of the country’s best known landmarks. The main feature of Wat Arun is its central spire, or prang, which is encrusted with colorful porcelain. In the exhibit, they will meet Samanera Natthapol Duangjampa, a Buddhist monk-in-training. He will be their guide as they learn more about the signifigance of this sacred place.

The Beheading of St. John the Baptist Church in Madaba, Jordan


The shrine of the beheading of John the Baptist is located in the Latin Monastery in the Al-Tal area of Madaba, considered one of the oldest archaeological areas in it, and even represents the center of the old city. In the exhibit, you will hear Jude Anton Twal’s story about why this church means so much to her.

Patan Durbar Square in

Lalitpur, Nepal


Guests will explore Patan Durbar Square, a vibrant hub in Nepal known for its stunning palace and 55 major Hindu temples, each dedicated to a deity. They learn about Shivesh Sharma, a devoted community member who performs daily offerings known as puja. His story will help them discover the cultural importance of this sacred site.

The Great Mosque in

Djenné, Mali


Visitors will journey to the Great Mosque of Djenné, a masterpiece of Sudano-Sahelian architecture and the largest mud-built structure in the world. This iconic landmark stands as a testament to centuries of craftsmanship and community dedication. In the exhibit, they will meet Aïssata Djittéye, who leads the young girls in her neighborhood in the annual tradition of re-plastering the mosque—a vibrant, communal festival that helps preserve this architectural wonder for future generations.

The Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue in Willemstad, Curacao


Guests will discover that Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue in Willemstad, Curaçao is the oldest continuous synagogue in the Americas. In this part of the experience, families will meet Nathan Levy Maduro, who sometimes leads Shabbat prayer services. Visitors also learn about the importance of community in the Jewish culture.

Rapa Nui in Chile


Visitors will explore the iconic moai of Rapa Nui, the remote Pacific island also known as Easter Island. These towering stone figures, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stand as powerful symbols of ancestral reverence in Rapa Nui culture. In the exhibit, they will meet Merahi Atam, who honors the moai as the embodiment of ancestors and their enduring presence in daily life. She will guide visitors in understanding the deep significance of these ancient statues and their role in the island’s traditions.

Learn More about Special Exhibits at McWane!