A historical description of the Cave of the Nativity

Location and Significance:
Situated beneath the altar of the main sanctuary of the Church of the Nativity, the Grotto is the traditional site where Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary. It is considered a deeply sacred place for Christians, marking the very location of the Incarnation, where the Son of God entered the world in humility.

Physical Description:
Descending stairs within the basilica lead to the Grotto. While parts of the cave walls remain visible, much of the Grotto is now adorned with marble facings and tapestries. A notable feature is a silver star on the marble floor with a Latin inscription stating, "Hic de Virgine Maria Iesus Christus natus est" ("Here, Jesus Christ was born of the Virgin Mary").

Manger Location:
To the right of the main altar in the Grotto is the traditional location where Mary placed the Baby Jesus after His birth. This is now marked by the Altar of the Manger. It is believed the manger itself would have been hewn from stone, a common practice in the region.

Altar of the Magi:
Opposite the Altar of the Manger is a small altar dedicated to the Magi, where Latin Catholics celebrate Mass. This highlights the Catholic devotion to the Wise Men who came from the East to worship the newborn Jesus.

Early Accounts:
Early Church Fathers like St. Justin Martyr (2nd century), Origen (3rd century), and Jerome (4th century) believed Jesus was born in a cave. Origen specifically mentions the cave in Bethlehem where Jesus was born and wrapped in swaddling clothes.

Significance of the Cave: Some theological interpretations view the cave setting as symbolic, drawing parallels between Jesus' birth in a cave and His burial in a cave, and seeing it as a symbol of re-birth.

Custody:
Currently, the Grotto is largely in the possession of the Greek Orthodox Church, with Catholics being in charge of the "Grotto of the Manger" section. The Franciscans also administer a passageway connecting the Grotto to the underground chapels of St. Catherine Church.

Historical Alterations: Over time, the Grotto has been altered to accommodate pilgrims and honor the site, including the installation of a silver manger in the 4th century (which St. Jerome noted with disapproval) and the covering of the rock with marble.