The Church of the Nativity, or Basilica of the Nativity[a], is a basilica located in Bethlehem in the West Bank. The grotto it contains holds a prominent religious significance to Christians of various denominations as the birthplace of Jesus. The grotto is the oldest site continuously used as a place of worship in Christianity, and the basilica is the oldest major church in the Holy Land. The church was originally commissioned by Constantine the Great a short time after his mother Helena's visit to Jerusalem and Bethlehem in 325–326, on the site that was traditionally considered to be the birthplace of Jesus. That original basilica was likely built between 330–333, being already mentioned in 333, and was dedicated on 31 May 339. It was destroyed by fire during the Samaritan revolts of the sixth century, possibly in 529, and a new basilica was built a number of years later by Byzantine Emperor Justinian (r. 527–565), who added a porch or narthex, and replaced the octagonal sanctuary with a cruciform transept complete with three apses, but largely preserved the original character of the building, with an atrium and a basilica consisting of a nave with four side aisles. The Church of the Nativity, while remaining basically unchanged since the Justinianic reconstruction, has seen numerous repairs and additions, especially from the Crusader period, such as two bell towers (now gone), wall mosaics and paintings (partially preserved). Over the centuries, the surrounding compound has been expanded, and today it covers approximately 12,000 square meters, comprising three different monasteries: one Greek Orthodox, one Armenian Apostolic, and one Roman Catholic, of which the first two contain bell towers built during the modern era. The silver star marking the spot where Christ was born, inscribed in Latin, was stolen in October 1847 by Greek monks who wished to remove this Catholic item. Some assert that this was a contributing factor in the Crimean War against the Russian Empire. Others assert that the war grew out of the wider European situation. Since 2012, the Church of the Nativity is a World Heritage Site and was the first to be listed by UNESCO under 'Palestine'. A 250-year-old understanding among religious communities, the Status Quo, applies to the site.
Church of the Nativity (Basilica of the Nativity) Tours and Tickets
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The Church of the Nativity, or Basilica of the Nativity[a], is a basilica located in Bethlehem in the West Bank. The grotto it contains holds a prominent religious significance to Christians of various denominations as the birthplace of Jesus. The grotto is the oldest site continuously used as a place of worship in Christianity, and the basilica is the oldest major church in the Holy Land. The church was originally commissioned by Constantine the Great a short time after his mother Helena's visit to Jerusalem and Bethlehem in 325–326, on the site that was traditionally considered to be the birthplace of Jesus. That original basilica was likely built between 330–333, being already mentioned in 333, and was dedicated on 31 May 339. It was destroyed by fire during the Samaritan revolts of the sixth century, possibly in 529, and a new basilica was built a number of years later by Byzantine Emperor Justinian (r. 527–565), who added a porch or narthex, and replaced the octagonal sanctuary with a cruciform transept complete with three apses, but largely preserved the original character of the building, with an atrium and a basilica consisting of a nave with four side aisles. The Church of the Nativity, while remaining basically unchanged since the Justinianic reconstruction, has seen numerous repairs and additions, especially from the Crusader period, such as two bell towers (now gone), wall mosaics and paintings (partially preserved). Over the centuries, the surrounding compound has been expanded, and today it covers approximately 12,000 square meters, comprising three different monasteries: one Greek Orthodox, one Armenian Apostolic, and one Roman Catholic, of which the first two contain bell towers built during the modern era. The silver star marking the spot where Christ was born, inscribed in Latin, was stolen in October 1847 by Greek monks who wished to remove this Catholic item. Some assert that this was a contributing factor in the Crimean War against the Russian Empire. Others assert that the war grew out of the wider European situation. Since 2012, the Church of the Nativity is a World Heritage Site and was the first to be listed by UNESCO under 'Palestine'. A 250-year-old understanding among religious communities, the Status Quo, applies to the site.
Overview
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- Due to its historical significance, the Church of the Nativity is an essential for Christian visitors and history enthusiasts.
- Entry is free yet visitors should dress modestly and wear clothes that cover shoulders and knees.
- Wheelchair-users can access the church, but not the Grotto.
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We Arrange for you to be picked up from David Citadel Hotel and drive you to Bethlehem where you will see, Separation Wall, Walled off Hotel from Outside, Banksy Grafitti, I Love Bethlehem, Old City of Bethlehem, Manger Square, Omar Mosque from outside, Manger Square, Nativity Church, Saint Jerome & Saint Joseph Cave (Not always open sometimes pilgrim groups book them for prayers and they closed for public for hour or two), Shepherds Field, Olive Wood Factory and Community Souvenir Store. *Please bring your passport because it's required sometimes when passing the checkpoint_en-US
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Journey through the Palestinian Territories and the Gush Etzion Settlement Block. Explore the complexities of Bethlehem and Hebron. Have lunch with a Palestinian family in Hebron, and have the option to spend the night with a middle class Palestinian family in Bethlehem. The tour combines the historical and religious highlights of the area, and explores the history and politics of Israel’s Occupation of the West Bank. You’ll visit Abraham’s Tomb, the Church of Nativity, Israel’s ‘Separation Barrier’, a refugee Camp, view the ‘settlements’, and walk the ghetto neighbourhoods of Hebron._en-US
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$68.00 USD
Tour to Bethlehem a biblical town south of Jerusalem in the West Bank. The biblical birthplace of Jesus, it’s a major Christian pilgrimage destination. On This Tour, we shall visit the Shepherds Field, Milk Grotto, Nativity Church, Olive Wood Factory and Store then go back to Jerusalem and from there Drive through the north of the Judean Desert to the Dead Sea region. Bathing at the Dead Sea. Immerse in the mud and float in the salty waters, we will have about two hours in the dead sea then Start heading back toward Jerusalem to drop off in Jerusalem David Citadel Hotel. * Please bring your passport because it's required sometimes when passing the checkpoint * All times are approximate, Switch of vehicles is Required_en-US
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Bethlehem Half Day Private Tour From Jerusalem or Tel Aviv You Can Book One Hour Before the Tour Starts - Languages other than English contact us first before booking to Make sure there is availability, We Arrange for you to be picked up and drive you to Bethlehem, The Birthplace of Jesus Christ, Upon arrival, we walk through Manger Square at the heart of the city, and visit the Church of the Nativity, After touring the church move on to the Milk Grotto, also includes a visit to the shepherd’s field, Before leaving Bethlehem, there’s time to visit one of the many Souvenir Shops in Bethlehem, With the half-day tour at a close, return to Jerusalem or tel Aviv or Ashdod only if picked tel aviv/Ashdod option for pick up *Please bring your passport because it's required sometimes when passing the checkpoint as sometimes it is Required while Entering Bethlehem * All times are approximate, Switch of vehicles is Required_en-US
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For Individuals with Hearing Loss
- Video Guide
- Hearing kits
Accessibility for wheels
- Special Parking
- Access with Portable Ramp
- Wide doors >= 75 cm and < 90 cm
Access for Visually Impaired
- Braille description
- Audio Guide
- Place has Special Guide Service
- Service animals permitted
Access for Seniors
- Physical difficulty level - 4
As you stand before the ancient stone walls of the Church of the Nativity in Jerusalem, you are enveloped in a sense of reverence and awe. The air is thick with the scent of incense, mingling with the faint musk of centuries-old stone. The sound of hushed whispers and the soft shuffle of footsteps fill your ears, creating a symphony of serenity.
You close your eyes and allow yourself to be transported back in time, imagining the journey of Mary and Joseph as they made their way to this holy place, guided by a brilliant star in the night sky. You can almost feel the weight of Mary’s swollen belly, the exhaustion in Joseph’s footsteps as they sought refuge in the humble stable where Jesus was born.
As you approach the entrance to the church, your fingertips brush against the rough, weathered stone, feeling the history and significance etched into its very surface. The cool stone is a stark contrast to the warmth of the sunlight filtering through the stained glass windows, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the ancient floor.
Inside, the dimly lit interior is a sanctuary of peace and tranquility. The flickering candles cast dancing shadows on the walls, illuminating the ornate mosaics and intricate carvings that adorn every surface. The air is heavy with the scent of ancient wood and the sweet perfume of aged leather bound bibles.
As you make your way towards the grotto where it is believed Jesus was born, you can feel a sense of anticipation building within you. The narrow passageways echo with the reverent footsteps of pilgrims who have come before you, each one seeking solace and spiritual connection in this sacred space.
And then, as you finally stand before the simple manger where the infant Jesus lay, a wave of emotion washes over you. The weight of history and faith bears down on your shoulders, filling you with a profound sense of reverence and gratitude. You are standing in the very place where the savior of the world entered into human form, a moment of divine connection that transcends time and space.
You lower yourself to your knees, letting your fingers trace the rough-hewn edges of the stone manger, feeling the ancient grooves and indentations left by generations of pilgrims who have come to pay homage. The tears well up in your eyes, a mixture of joy and humility at being in the presence of such holiness.
As you make your way back towards the entrance of the church, you carry with you a sense of peace and renewal. The journey of visitation to the Church of the Nativity has touched your soul in ways you never thought possible, leaving you forever changed by the power of faith and the enduring legacy of love that began in a humble stable in Bethlehem.
The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem does not offer audio descriptive guides or specify sensory-friendly hours on its website. It is recommended to contact the church directly for more information on accessibility services available for visitors with sensory sensitivities.
The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, located just outside Jerusalem, is a place of great significance for Christians around the world. For local writers and artists, this ancient basilica holds a special place in their hearts, not only for its religious importance but also for its cultural and historical significance.
One local writer, Rana, describes the Church of the Nativity as a place where the past and present converge. She speaks of the feeling of awe that overcomes her every time she steps inside the basilica, knowing that she is walking in the footsteps of countless pilgrims and visitors who have come before her. Rana finds inspiration in the stories and traditions associated with the church, drawing on them in her own writing to reflect on the complexities of faith, tradition, and identity.
For local artists like Omar, the Church of the Nativity is a source of endless inspiration. Omar often visits the basilica to sketch its intricate architecture, from the ancient mosaics to the towering columns. He is fascinated by the interplay of light and shadow in the church, capturing these subtle nuances in his paintings and drawings. Through his art, Omar seeks to convey the sense of peace and reverence that he feels when he is in the presence of such a sacred place.
The Church of the Nativity is not just a religious site for local writers and artists, but a living symbol of their connection to their heritage and their place in the world. It serves as a reminder of the enduring power of faith and tradition, as well as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Through their words and art, these creatives pay homage to the timeless significance of the basilica and the stories it holds within its ancient walls.
Directions and Transportation
1. By Bus: Public buses are available from various locations in Jerusalem to Bethlehem. Bus lines 234 and 234/1 go directly to Bethlehem from Jerusalem’s central bus station.
2. By Shared Taxi: Shared taxis, known as "sherut", are a popular mode of transportation between Jerusalem and Bethlehem. They can be found near Damascus Gate in Jerusalem.
3. By Private Car: If you prefer to drive, you can reach the Church of the Nativity by car. There are parking spaces available nearby.
4. Accessibility: The Church of the Nativity is accessible to wheelchair users and individuals with mobility issues. Ramps and elevators are in place to facilitate access.
Ticket Booking and Discounts
1. Entry Fee: There is no entry fee to visit the Church of the Nativity. However, donations are appreciated.
2. Guided Tours: Guided tours of the church may be available for a fee. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
3. Discounts: Students, seniors, and children may be eligible for discounts on guided tours or special events. Make sure to inquire about available discounts when booking.
Local Amenities
1. Parking: Parking facilities are available near the Church of the Nativity. However, it is recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays.
2. Restrooms: Restrooms are available within the church complex for visitors. They are generally well-maintained and accessible.
3. Dining Options: There are various dining options near the church, catering to different dietary needs. From local restaurants serving Middle Eastern cuisine to international fast-food chains, you will find a range of choices to suit your preferences. Vegan and vegetarian options are also available.