churchofthenav
Historical Significance
  • Bethlehem is home to the Church of the Nativity, the oldest continuously standing church in the Holy Land.
  • Constantine’s mother first built this church in the 4th century; Emperor Justinian then rebuilt the church in the 530s, which is the same structure we have today.
  •  During the Persian invasions of 614, this church was spared from destruction due to the depictions of the magi (wise men) on the walls.
Biblical Significance
  • Luke 2:1-7 According to tradition, Mary gave birth to Jesus at the place of where the star is located on the floor. Today, it is a Christian pilgrimage site due to the local tradition that Jesus was born in a cave at the edge of the village.