Church of the Nativity

Photo

by Neil Ward

/ CC BY 2.0

The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, Palestine, is one of the oldest continuously operating churches in the world and is traditionally believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ. The church was originally commissioned in 327 AD by Constantine the Great and his mother Helena. Its basilica is built over a grotto where Jesus is said to have been born, marked by a silver star embedded in the floor. The site also includes a Roman Catholic, Greek Orthodox, and Armenian Apostolic church, reflecting its significance to various Christian denominations. The Church of the Nativity is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major pilgrimage destination, especially during Christmas.

Also check out

Old City of Hebron

Cave of the Patriarchs

Hisham's Palace

The Palestinian Museum

Chapel of the Milk Grotto

Church of Saint Catherine