Handel's Messiah, one of the most celebrated works of sacred music, will be performed at the historic site of Mukawir (Machaerus) in Jordan on 12 September 2026, launching a cultural and spiritual programme leading up to the global commemorations of St. John the Baptist in 2030. The event, organised under the theme "Echoes of Faith, Voices of Heritage" by Friends of Jordan Festivals in cooperation with the Delegation of the European Union to Jordan, is supported by the Jordan Tourism Board, Royal Jordanian, Goethe-Institut Jordan, and the Embassy of Hungary in Jordan. Mukawir holds special significance as the site traditionally associated with the martyrdom of St. John the Baptist, making it a fitting setting for the oratorio, which explores themes of faith, redemption, and hope.
Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Dr. Emad Hijazeen said Jordan has long been a safe haven and beacon of peace, stability, moderation, and religious coexistence, home to some of the world's most significant Christian pilgrimage and heritage sites. He said the initiative reflects Jordan's commitment to preserving shared heritage while strengthening the country's position as a leading destination for Christian pilgrimage, cultural tourism, and international dialogue. EU Ambassador to Jordan Pierre-Christophe Chatzisavas said the European Union has long supported the preservation and development of historical sites across Jordan, including Mukawir, and that this project aims to enhance sustainable cultural heritage initiatives and strengthen the ability of civil society actors to collaborate in preserving and promoting cultural heritage. The initiative reinforces Jordan's role as a meeting place of civilizations, faiths, and cultures and its unique position as a destination for religious and cultural tourism, while honouring the legacy of St. John the Baptist through sacred music and acknowledging Jordan's contribution to peaceful coexistence and intercultural dialogue across and beyond the Middle East. The event forms part of the European Union's broader commitment to promoting Jordan's unique cultural heritage through community-centred initiatives that support sustainable economic development.