This photo shows a close-up view of the silver star that marks the spot where, according to tradition, Christ was born. It is located in the Grotto of the Nativity. The Grotto, a very famous site, is 40 feet long, 12 feet wide, and 10 feet high. The Grotto is in the Church of the Nativity, which is actually several churches in one ancient building. The Grotto is in the portion of the structure under the control of the Greek Orthodox Church. The first church on this site was built by the Empress Helena in the 4th century. That church was destroyed by Samaritans but was rebuilt in its present form by the Emperor Justinian in the 6th century.