Overview:

: Al-Khader Church (Bethlehem) In Jordan is a Roman Catholic Church located in the City of Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus. It is one of the oldest churches in the world, dating back to the 4th century. It was built during the reign of Emperor Constantine and it stands today as a pilgrimage site for Christains from around the world. The Church is dedicated to St. George, the patron saint of Palestine, and is home to a miraculous image of the saint. Inside the church is an ossuary and several chapels that contain numerous religious artifacts. The church also serves as a center for social ministry and gives assistance to the poor and needy of the region. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Jordan
Prominent Features:

is a magnificent and majestic structure with a sloping tiled roof. It is situated in a small village at the foot of the Hills of Moab in the Palestinian West Bank. The church is constructed of local stone and is believed to have been founded in the 5th century by the Helper, St. George, who was a Roman soldier who became a Christian martyr. The oldest part of the building is the transept, which dates from the time of the Crusaders. The facade of Al-Khader church is decorated with three distinct Italian architectural styles, all of which display the importance of the Roman presence here during the medieval period. The windows of the church are oval-shaped and made from polished marble that was donated by the Sultan of Yemen. Above the doors stands an arch in red granite, which was added in 1647 by the Franciscans. The courtyard of the church is bordered by cypress trees, and the floor is decorated with a unique pattern of painted stars. Inside Al-Khader church one can find magnificent artwork including hand-painted frescoes, hand-crafted marble carvings, and delicate traceries of wrought iron. The church is also home to an ancient pulpit and a hand-carved wooden statue of St. George. This mosque is believed to have been the first place where Jesus was born and baptized. This is why it is revered by both Christians and Muslims alike. This national monument of Jordan portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The history of Al-Khader Church in Bethlehem dates back to the 12th century. The church was built in 1160 AD, under the rule of the Ayyubid Sultan Saladin. It was a Franciscan monastery, constructed in honor of St. George. The monastery is located in east Bethlehem and overlooks to the Dead Sea and the Jordan Valley. The site itself has been a traditional center for pilgrims visiting the holy land since the 13th century. In the 15th century, the church underwent a series of renovations and reconstructions, after the expulsion of the Franciscans in 1350. It was once part of the Latin District under the Franciscans. In 1633, the building was completely rebuilt and renovated. During the Ottoman period, the church was neglected and the site was no longer maintained. It was in the 19th century when it once again gained prominence. In 1890, the church was renovated to bring it back to its original form. The exterior and interior were reconstructed in order to steward the original design and architecture. During the twentieth century, the church suffered damages from several earthquakes resulting in the need for further repairs. However, the core of the building is still in good condition. Today, Al-Khader Church functions as a symbol of Jordanian-Palestinian brotherhood and a center for spiritual pilgrimage. This church is also one of the most important Christian shrines in the Holy Land and is visited annually by pilgrims and tourists from all over the world. You must visit one of these historical places in Jordan on your Jordan tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Al-Khader Church is located in Bethlehem, a small town in Jordan just 4 km from the famous ancient city of Jerash. 2. Al-Khader Church is said to be the oldest place of Christian worship in Jordan. According to ancient records, it was built during the religious persecution of Christians under the rule of Emperor Valerian in the year 259. 3. Before being converted into a church, the site was thought to have been a synagogue and a temple of Zeus in the 2nd century BC. 4. Inside the church, a statue of the Virgin Mary can be seen which is believed to have been sent from heaven by the angels, providing comfort to the persecuted Christians, according to tradition. 5. The church today is used as a gathering place for both Christian and Muslim worshipers, making it a symbol of inter-faith harmony in the region. Visit one of the famous monuments of Jordan with your friends and family.