The Grotto of the Nativity is an underground cave located beneath the basilica. It encloses the location where Jesus is said to have been born. The exact spot is marked beneath an altar by a 14-point silver star set into the marble floor. Another altar in the Grotto marks the site where Mary laid Baby Jesus in the manger.
Getting down to this spot was no small feat! Our strategy was to walk fast and not make eye contact with anybody. Always pretend like you know exactly where you’re going!
