Bethlehem: Restoration of the Grotto of the Nativity

Entrance to the Grotto - Image ICN/JS

The Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem and the Custody of the Holy Land have announced that works are set to begin to restore the 'cradle' of Christianity - the place where Jesus was born - in Bethlehem.

They expressed their joy at the initiative, which also involves the cooperation of the Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Patriarchate and will be carried out under the auspices of the Presidency of the State of Palestine.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas referred to the restoration works when he visited Rome in November 2025, both during his meeting with Pope Leo XIV and at the inauguration of the 'Bethlehem Reborn' exhibition. He said that the renovation of the place where Christ was born was "a sign of great hope and rebirth for the whole Holy Land."

The works will be carried out by the Italian company from Prato, which restored the Basilica of the Nativity two years ago. According to the Custody's website, the preliminary preparations have been completed, and the works are now about to begin.

In addition to work in the Grotto itself - on the bare rock, the marble floors, columns and decorations, and the star marking the exact spot where Jesus was born - the project includes technical reinforcement measures in adjacent sections.

The restorations will also provide support for many local families of workers (trained in restoration) who will be employed in this important project.

The economic situation in Bethlehem has been difficult in recent years. There was a huge decline in pilgrimages during the time of Covid. Then after 7 October pilgrimages were mostly halted, and at the same time Israel placed huge travel restrictions on Palestinians working in Israel. Celebrations returned to Manger Square in Bethlehem after three years of darkenss. It is hoped that this restoration project is another sign of rebirth.

The official statement says: "This project embodies a unified Christian commitment to preserve the spiritual, historical, and cultural patrimony of the Holy Grotto for future generations, and to uphold the dignity of a site where the Christian proclamation took visible form and where the faithful of every nation have gathered in pilgrimage throughout the centuries."

"In the Grotto, the mystery of the Incarnation entered history, and the Christian faith 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," the statement explains.

"Through this collective effort, the Churches of Jerusalem protect the Gospel heritage entrusted to them and ensure 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 illuminate 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."

LINK

Read the official announcement:
www.custodia.org/en/news/preserving-the-site-of-christs-birth-the-restoration-of-the-grotto-of-the-nativity/