This initiative, confirmed by the Vicar of the Custody of the Holy Land, marks a significant step in the preservation of one of Christianity's most sacred sites.
The Grotto of the Nativity, located in the heart of the Basilica of Bethlehem, is venerated by 1.4 billion Catholics as the traditional site of the birth of Jesus Christ.
It occupies a space of approximately 12 by 10 meters [30 x 40 ft.], situated beneath the main altar of the church, originally built by Emperor Constantine in 326 and rebuilt in the 6th century.
This iconic site, which attracts millions of pilgrims each year, has not undergone any major restoration work for over 600 years.
Previous work, begun in 2013 under the supervision of the Palestinian Authority and in collaboration with the Catholic Church and the Greek Orthodox and Armenian churches, has already restored the mosaics, roof, frescoes, and stained-glass windows of the basilica, reversing centuries of damage caused by time and conflicts.
The new phase, authorized by presidential decree, specifically targets the grotto itself. It will focus on preserving the walls and floors, stabilizing the internal structures, and improving access for pilgrims from around the world, ensuring a safe and dignified visit.
This project will be carried out by local artisans and workers from Bethlehem, providing vital economic support to families, particularly Christian families, affected by the crisis.
Indeed, the drastic decline in religious tourism in recent years, exacerbated by the violence in the Gaza Strip, restrictions in the West Bank, and poverty in Jerusalem, has plunged the region into greater hardship.
The two previous years saw subdued Christmas celebrations: darkened streets, an absence of pilgrims, and an atmosphere of somber prayer, far removed from the usual festivities.
Mahmoud Abbas, received in audience by the Pope, Italian President Sergio Mattarella, and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni during his visit to Rome, made no secret of his satisfaction: “Resuming the work is a sign of hope and renewal for the Holy Land. I am very happy about it.”
Fr. Ibrahim Faltas, Vicar of the Custody of the Holy Land, echoed this sentiment, declaring that “the care given to a place so important to Christianity is also an appeal to care for life, dignity, and peace.” Beyond its spiritual dimension, the project has significant political and economic implications.
Bethlehem, located in the occupied West Bank, suffered under the blockade imposed by Israel following the Hamas terrorist attack on October 7, 2023. Checkpoints have recently been eased, allowing some foreign tourist groups to return.
The president of the Palestinian Authority plans to attend Midnight Mass this year, the first time in two years due to regional instability.
In a divided Middle East, the restoration of the grotto where the Incarnate Word was born could well ignite a glimmer of hope in a fragmented region, reminding us that, like the birth of Christ in a humble grotto, the most significant events often unfold in silence and obscurity.