Come visit the Biblical lands, right on Fifth Avenue in Pittsburgh! The Rodef Shalom Biblical Botanical Garden, established in 1987, is the largest such garden in North America. Sitting on a third of an acre, the garden is the only one of its kind to feature an ongoing program of research and publication.  Inspired by the land and stories of the Hebrew Bible and Jewish culture, the garden's plants include selections directly mentioned in significant books, native to the Levant, and native to western Pennsylvania. 

The Garden aims to be both educational and a refuge from the bustling city that surrounds us.
The pastoral setting includes a waterfall, a desert, a stream, and a representation of the River Jordan, which meanders through the garden from our Lake Galilee to our Dead Sea. All plants in the garden—more than 100—are labeled with corresponding biblical verses and are displayed among replicas of ancient farming tools. Among the specimens are wheat, barley, millet, and herbs valued by the ancient Israelites. Olives, dates, pomegranates, figs, and cedar trees round out the historic and educational inventory.  New plants join the garden annually.

The current directorship is held by Dasya Petranova, who is dedicated to understanding the garden and its plants in all their needs and significance.

Free parking is available. The garden is shaded in areas, but please be prepared for an hour or so outside - please bring hats, water, and anything else you may need to remain comfortable outdoors. The entrance is off Devonshire Street. The garden is shaded in areas, but please be prepared for an hour or so outside - please bring hats, water, and anything else you may need to remain comfortable outdoors.