Bade Museum, Berkeley

About Bade Museum

The Badè Museum of Biblical Archaeology in Berkeley explores how ancient discoveries illuminate contemporary issues of justice and equality. Visitors examine artifacts and exhibitions that challenge traditional religious narratives, particularly those centered on gender roles, religious patriarchy, colonization, and scholarly bias. Founded in 1923, the museum's collection centers on discoveries from the archaeological excavation at Tell en-Naṣbeh, a site that remains central to the museum's scholarly work. The museum presents in-person and online exhibitions alongside lectures and programming that highlight historically marginalized perspectives. Past lectures are available to watch online, and visitors can search the museum's collection through its website. The Badè Museum addresses how sacred histories have been used to suppress rather than illuminate, using archaeology to excavate critical contemporary views. The museum and its staff focus on bringing lessons from the ancient past to those engaged in contemporary struggles for justice, equity, and inclusion.