Grotto of the Nativity, Religious sanctuary in Bethlehem, Palestine.
The Grotto of the Nativity consists of a cave measuring 12 meters long by 3 meters wide beneath the Church of the Nativity complex.
Emperor Constantine commissioned the construction of the first basilica over the grotto in the 4th century following his mother Helena's visit to the Holy Land.
A silver star embedded in the marble floor marks the traditional birthplace of Jesus Christ with Latin inscriptions detailing this significant location.
The grotto maintains specific visiting schedules that differ between summer and winter months, with access through staircases from the main church above.
Forty-eight hanging lamps illuminate the underground chamber, while different Christian denominations share management responsibilities according to established agreements.
Location: Bethlehem
GPS coordinates: 31.70430,35.20791
Latest update: December 2, 2025 11:02
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