By Cecilia Seppia

In Bethlehem, everything is ready to begin the restoration works of the Grotto of the Nativity, occurring for the first time in 600 years.

The announcement was made jointly by the Greek Orthodox Patriarchate of Jerusalem and the Custody of the Holy Land. They expressed their joy at the initiative, which also involves the cooperation of the Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Patriarchate and is carried out under the auspices of the Presidency of the State of Palestine.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas had referred to the restoration works while visiting Rome in November 2025, both during his meeting with Pope Leo XIV and at the inauguration of the exhibition “Bethlehem Reborn.” 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.”

Thus, in compliance with the presidential decree on the restoration of the site already issued in 2024, and with the historic status quo governing the holy places, the Grotto—venerated across Christian faiths—will finally receive the care it needs.

Project entrusted to an Italian company

The works will be carried out by an Italian company from Prato, which only two years ago restored the Basilica of the Nativity, according to a major and meticulous rehabilitation project.

The choice is based on the need to ensure continuity of method, craftsmanship, and artistic sensitivity toward a site of unparalleled sacred value. According to the Custody’s website, the preliminary preparations have been completed, and the works are now about to begin.

In addition to interventions 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. This reflects both the architectural unity of the sanctuary and the spirit of cooperation that preserves it for all humanity.

The restorations will also provide support for many local families of workers (trained in restoration) who will be employed in this important project, and consequently will have an impact on Bethlehem’s economy.

The economic situation has been difficult due to the conflict between Israel and Hamas and the halt in pilgrimages, which are now slowly resuming as “Phase 2” of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan gets underway.

In the sign of unity

A sign of rebirth, therefore, but also a strong ecumenical initiative, marked by collaboration between Greek Orthodox Christians and the Franciscans, custodians of the Grotto.

“This project,” the statement continues, “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 confession 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 Savior was born.”