Church of the Nativity
The Church of the Nativity is located on the territory of the Palestinian Authority. Jesus was born in a cave, the temple was built just above it. The church building has survived to this day in good condition, although it was built 1,500 years ago. People treated the Temple with care. The building survived fires, and in 529 it burned down completely. After 2 years, thanks to Justinian, the temple was completely restored; the building was badly damaged during an earthquake in the 19th century.
Brief description
The Church of the Nativity is considered the most sacred place on Earth. Christians come here to worship God. On Christmas Day there is a secret worship service in Bethlehem. The government in Palestine changed, but church services did not stop. Different sects of Christianity control the temple. They even made themselves separate entrances to the Church of the Nativity. In the outbuildings there are monastic communities of Armenian, Catholic, and Orthodox. The main shrines in the Church of the Nativity include the Miraculous Icon of the Mother of God and the Star of the Nativity and the Manger of Jesus.
Features of the temple
The building of the Church of the Nativity of Christ is of historical value; it is included in the World Heritage List. Ancient architects painted walls, laid out mosaics, and all this has survived to this day. The outer side of the temple is made of gray stone. The building area is 25 meters wide and 50 meters long. The interior of the Church of the Nativity of Christ is rich, you can see a lot of gold. Tall columns, lack of light due to blocked windows, resemble a cave; at the entrance to the temple there is a bathhouse, infants are baptized here.
How to get there
People travel to Bethlehem from Israel; there is a straight road of 8 kilometers leading here. The road to the Church of the Nativity is not long, but the states are different - Palestine and Israel, so you must take your passport with you. Women in this area must cover their knees, legs, and head. Men don't wear shorts here. This is important to know, otherwise they may simply not be allowed into the temple; exceptions are not made for anyone.
