The columns

The Basilica of the Nativity was rebuilt by the emperor Justinian in the sixth century. The fifty stone columns have capitals with vegetal patterns that used to be covered with golden foil. Below, visitors can see the detail of one of the paintings with the inscription “Ecce Agnus Dei.”

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During the twelfth century, the columns in the nave were decorated with a series of tempera paintings that represent saints. The column on the right bears an image of the prophet Elijah in the desert. During the twelfth century, the columns in the nave were decorated with a series of tempera paintings that represent saints. The column below bears an image of the prophet Elijah in the desert.

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Throughout the centuries, pilgrims have always been filled with a sense of holy awe in front of the splendor of the central nave with its painted columns, the architrave made of Lebanese cedar, and the mosaics that illuminate the walls.

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