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Church
Church of the Nativity
Bethlehem, Palestine
"Built over the birthplace of Christ"
About Church of the Nativity
The oldest continuously operating Christian church in the world, built by the Emperor Constantine on the site identified as the birthplace of Jesus Christ. The original basilica was completed in 339 AD. Today the church is shared by Greek Orthodox, Armenian Apostolic, and Roman Catholic communities. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an enduring place of pilgrimage.
Pilgrimage Highlights
- 1The Grotto of the Nativity — the actual birthplace site
- 2The Silver Star marking the spot of Christ's birth
- 3The oldest surviving Christian mosaic floor
- 4The Altar of the Magi — where the Wise Men presented gifts
- 5Shared custody of Greek Orthodox, Armenian, and Catholics
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Photography coming soon
Key Facts
- Type
- Church
- Location
- Bethlehem, Palestine
- Denomination
- Multi-denominational
- Established
- 339 AD (Constantinian basilica)
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Pilgrim's Note
Every sacred place has its own atmosphere of grace. We encourage visitors to enter in a spirit of prayer and respect, regardless of denomination.