Located only a few miles from Jerusalem, Bethlehem is known as the birthplace of Jesus and has long been regarded as a holy place by Christians. A church was eventually built on the site, and the crypt beneath it, known as the Grotto of the Nativity, is reputed to be the site of the original manger. A Roman Catholic mass is held there at midnight on Christmas Eve, and pilgrims from all over the world attend. The highlight of the service occurs when a carved wooden figure of the Christ Child is laid in a manger in the Grotto of the Nativity. Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary