The Jerusalem Patriarchate, the Custody of the Holy Land, and the Armenian Patriarchate of Jerusalem announced the start of restoration work at the Grotto of the Nativity in Bethlehem.
According to a joint statement, the works will be carried out by the Italian company that recently oversaw the rehabilitation of the Church of the Nativity, ensuring “continuity in method, craftsmanship, and artistic sensitivity toward a site of unparalleled sacred symbolism.”
Church representatives said preliminary preparations have already been completed and that the project is “on the threshold of commencement.”
In addition to interventions inside the Grotto of the Nativity, the project includes “technical reinforcement measures in adjacent sections reflecting both the architectural unity of the sanctuary and the cooperative spirit that preserves it for the entire world.”
Protecting the Gospel heritage
The statement highlights the profound theological significance of the undertaking: “In the Grotto, the mystery of the Incarnation entered history, and the Christian confession received its earthly beginning. To restore this holy place is to safeguard the continuity of faith, memory, and devotion in the land of the Nativity.”
“This project embodies a unified Christian commitment to preserve the spiritual, historical, and cultural patrimony of the Holy Grotto for future generations,” the statement said.
Through this joint effort, the Jerusalem Churches said they are protecting “the Gospel heritage entrusted to them and ensuring that the faithful of all traditions may continue to venerate the birthplace of Christ with reverence.”
“ From Bethlehem, the light of the Nativity continues to illumine the world, bearing witness to the enduring Christian presence in the Holy Land and to the hope that radiates from the sacred cave where the Saviour was born,” the statement added.
The Grotto of the Nativity
The Grotto of the Nativity, nearly rectangular, measures approximately 12 meters in length and 3 meters in width. Its floor and part of the walls are clad in marble.
On the eastern side stands the main Orthodox altar, marking the place where the infant Jesus was born. The site is illuminated by fifteen oil lamps that burn continuously: six for the Orthodox, five for the Armenians, and four for the Roman Catholics.
The Orthodox Divine Liturgy is celebrated daily in the Grotto between 5:30 a.m. and 7:00 a.m., followed by Vespers from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Services are then held by the Armenians and the Roman Catholics, in accordance with long-standing tradition.
Photo: Jerusalem Patriarchate
