Saint Catherine's Church is a Franciscan monastery located within the larger compound of the renowned Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem. This church is said to be built upon the site where Christ is believed to have appeared to Saint Catherine of Alexandria and predicted her eventual martyrdom at the beginning of the 4th century.
The present-day Franciscan monastery was substantially rebuilt in 1882, with the financial support of the Emperor of Austria. This reconstruction effort incorporated the remains of a 5th century sanctuary dedicated to Saint Jerome, as well as parts of a 12th century Crusader-era church that once stood on the same grounds. Through these architectural layers, the monastery has maintained a deep connection to the rich historical and religious significance of its location.
In 1948, the church underwent further restoration work overseen by the famous Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi, who is renowned for his sensitive renovations of holy sites across the Holy Land. Barluzzi's efforts helped to preserve and enhance the spiritual atmosphere of the monastery.
One of the most visually striking additions to Saint Catherine's Church occurred in the year 2000, when a colorful stained glass window depicting a Nativity scene was installed above the main altar. This breathtaking work of art serves as a dramatic focal point for worshippers and pilgrims entering the sacred space.
More recently, in the summer of 2013, the church underwent further modifications to make the interior more spacious and accommodating. The relocation of the main altar allowed for an increase in the number of believers who could attend the globally televised Christmas Eve Mass held at the church each year on the night of December 24th.