Centre for the Study of the Sacred Texts, Haifa

The Center for the Study of the Sacred Texts was constructed during the third stage of the building of the Arc complex. It serves as a hub for scholars and translators who analyze and interpret Bahá’í texts to aid the Universal House of Justice. The structure was designed by architect Hossein Amanat and completed in 1999. It was officially inaugurated in May 2001.

The Center spans over 7750 square meters (83 420 square feet) and includes study rooms for resident and visiting scholars, meeting and conference rooms, a large reference library, a secretariat, and other ancillary spaces. The design of the Center is contemporary with classical elements and proportions to blend in with the other buildings on the Arc. Its most intriguing feature is the circular opening in the entrance portico, which illuminates the area several stories below. At the lowest level of this light well is a fountain and miniature garden.

Situated on the Arc, which was initially planned by the Guardian of the Faith on Mount Carmel above the Shrine of the Báb to the east, the Center for the Study of the Sacred Texts is located directly west of the Seat of the Universal House of Justice and between it and the International Baha'i Archives. A significant portion of the building is underground, with skylights providing natural light to all levels. It is also connected to an extension of the Archives that includes secure, climate-controlled storage vaults for the original, handwritten papers that constitute the Baha'i Sacred Texts.