Shepherds' Field
Bethlehem
The Shepherds' Field Chapel, located in Beit Sahour near Bethlehem in the West Bank, is a Roman Catholic religious site that commemorates the biblical event where angels announced Jesus' birth to shepherds. Built in 1953 by the Franciscans and designed by architect Antonio Barluzzi, the chapel's structure mimics a nomadic tent with five gray apses symbolizing the shepherds' lifestyle. Behind the chapel rises a grotto, adding to the spiritual ambiance. The site has deep historical roots, with archaeological findings revealing habitation from the Herodian and Roman periods, including caves and ancient oil presses. Over these remains, a Byzantine monastery was established in the 4th century, expanded in the 6th, but destroyed in the early 7th century and later defaced in the 8th century. The chapel is also dedicated to Our Lady of Fátima and features inscriptions of the angel's words to the shepherds in gold, as well as imagery depicting the nativity and adoration of the shepherds. The surrounding area is traditionally identified as the "Valley of Boaz," linking it to Old Testament narratives. This blend of archaeological significance, religious symbolism, and architectural uniqueness makes the Shepherds' Field Chapel a compelling pilgrimage destination.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the chapel's architectural details and surrounding archaeological sites. Purchasing tickets or arranging visits through the Franciscan custodians in advance can enhance the experience. Modest dress is recommended as a sign of respect. The site is accessible year-round, but spring and autumn offer milder weather for exploration.
Faits intéressants
- •The chapel's design mimics a nomadic tent, symbolizing the shepherds' lifestyle.
- •Archaeological excavations uncovered caves used during the Herodian and Roman periods, supporting the tradition of shepherd habitation.
- •The site includes remains of a Byzantine monastery destroyed in 614 by Persian invaders.
- •The chapel is dedicated to Our Lady of Fátima, linking it to 20th-century Catholic devotion.
Histoire
The site of the Shepherds' Field Chapel has a rich history dating back to the Herodian and Roman periods, evidenced by archaeological excavations revealing caves and ancient oil presses.
In the late 4th century, a Byzantine monastery was constructed on these remains and later expanded in the 6th century.
This monastery was destroyed in 614 by Persian forces and was not reoccupied thereafter.
In the 8th century, Muslim conquerors defaced Christian symbols on the site.
The modern chapel was built in 1953 by the Franciscans to honor the biblical event of the annunciation to the shepherds, reflecting layers of religious and cultural history.
Guide du lieu
Main Chapel1953
The central worship area designed by Antonio Barluzzi, featuring five apses shaped like a nomadic tent and gold inscriptions of the angel's message to the shepherds.
Grotto Behind the Chapel
A natural cave rising behind the chapel, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere and connecting the site to ancient shepherd dwellings.
Archaeological Excavations4th century to Roman period
Remains of caves and ancient oil presses from the Herodian and Roman periods, discovered during 20th-century excavations led by Franciscan archaeologist Virgilio Canio Corbo.