Pontifical Biblical Institute

The Pontifical Biblical Institute is a theological research facility in Rome featuring a central hall across three levels with Art Nouveau balconies overlooking an extensive collection of biblical and ancient texts. The spaces were designed specifically to support studies in Greek, Hebrew, Biblical Aramaic, archaeology, and biblical interpretation.

The facility was established in 1909 through an apostolic letter from Pope Pius X to advance biblical scholarship in Rome. Since 1927 it has maintained a branch in Jerusalem, extending its work into archaeological and geographical research in the region.

The institute serves as a hub for serious biblical scholarship, drawing students who want to master ancient languages and deepen their understanding of sacred texts. People from many countries gather here to study, discuss, and develop their expertise in this specialized field.

Visitors can access the library and reading rooms to examine rare books and manuscripts focused on biblical and Oriental studies. Access works best with advance registration, and staff can help you navigate the extensive collection.

The library started with duplicate copies from the Vatican Library and grew into a specialized archive for Oriental and biblical studies. Today it holds one of the world's most important collections on this subject, regularly consulted by researchers from around the globe.