Birthplace of Jesus: Church of the Nativity and the Pilgrimage Route, Bethlehem

The Church of the Nativity features four rows of monolithic columns carved from local stone and 44 white marble pillars inside its stone structure.

Emperor Constantine I and his mother Helena commissioned the first church in 326, which was later rebuilt by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century.

Three Christian denominations - Roman Catholic, Armenian, and Greek Orthodox - share custody of the church and maintain separate sections since 1852.

The Grotto of the Nativity beneath the main altar contains a silver star marking the traditional birthplace spot, surrounded by continuously burning lamps.

During the Second Intifada in 2002, the church became the center of a month-long siege when armed Palestinians sought shelter within its walls.

Location: Bethlehem

GPS coordinates: 31.70440,35.20669

Latest update: March 4, 2025 05:08