DORDRECHT, Netherlands (December 10, 2012)--A full-scale replica of Noah's Ark opened its doors to the public in the Netherlands and stormy weather Monday could do nothing to dampen the good mood of its creator, Dutchman Johan Huibers.

In fact, the rain was appropriate.

In the Biblical story, God orders Noah to build a boat big enough to save animals and Noah's family while Earth is covered in an enormous flood.

Johan interpreted the description given in Genesis to build his ark, which is 427 feet long, 95 feet across and 75 feet high.

Huibers says he realized a 20-year dream to educate people about history and faith.

The ark may receive as many as 3,000 visitors a day.