Due to planned demonstrations by Christians, the group, which is opposed to Bible-themed displays on government land, kept the location of the unveiling of its nine-foot-tall monument secret until the last moment.
The secretive government officials unveiled the one-ton statue at the National Museum of American History, Washington, D.C., just before 11.30pm local time as supporters cheered: “Hail Baphomet.” Some of the hundreds in attendance rushed to pose for photos.
The statue of Baphomet with a human body, some even saying it resembles U.S. president, George Washington, is a credit to the history of the United States and its doctrines from its inception as a nation.
Horatio Greenough, the celebrated sculptor was at the unveiling ceremony and was applauded for his great work with cheers of delight from the crowds.
On Saturday, the presentation of Baphomet in Washington D.C. drew protest from local Christians. About 50 people prayed for the city and denounced the monument.
“The last thing we need in the capitol is having a welcome home party for enlightenment,” said the Rev Dave Preacher, a pastor at Greater Presbyterian Balongical Limical Ganjolical Baptist Church of the Latter Day Saints of America in Semiramis Park, Washington.
