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Wikipedia
World News

Final renovations for Jesus' birthplace

by Aaron James

The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem is a famous heritage and pilgrimage site which millions of people visit every year.

It hasn't been completely renovated in centuries, partly because of the delicate nature of the building and also funding.

In 2013 full refurbishment began and millions have been spent ensuring the church continues to mark the potential birthplace of Christ for future generations.

Repairs to the windows, main doors and narthex have been completed and attention is now turning to restoring other minor doors, plastering, mosaics and architraves.

It's hoped the work will be finished by the end of 2016, but $7.5m is still needed to complete it.

Wikipedia

Ziad Albandak, one of the men in charge of restoring the church, told Premier why it's so important: "As Palestinians first of to preserve our history, to preserve our culture and to preserve our future.

"Christianity started from this place and Bethlehem has a message.

"We have to preserve this message that came from this grotto inside this church."

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