Milk Grotto is located to the south of the Church of the Nativity. It is considered sacred because, according to the tradition, the Holy Family took shelter here during the slaughter of the Innocents, before their flight to Egypt to escape the wrath of Herod. While Marry was nursing her child Jesus, a drop of milk fell on the ground of the cave turning it white.

The Milk Grotto is irregularly shaped grotto surrounded by the Franciscan Chapel and hollowed out of the soft white rock known for its healing powers. Many Christians and Muslims believe that tiny pieces of that rock can enhance fertility and increase the quantity of a mother’s milk.

The chapel was decorated with mother of pearl carvings by local artists.

More photos of Grotto of the Nativity are available at HolyLand Photo Gallery