Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem, Apse & Facade

Painting inspired by the sketches of this most ancient of basilicas in Christendom. This Roman building was spared the destruction of all the other great Roman basilicas by the Persians in the 6^th century. The exterior elements of this building reflect the many different architectural styles which make up this fortress like church complex. The painting shows both the facade and fort like building facing the Bethlehem Plaza but also it’s gothic style apse. The plaza is made up of two carpets from Iranian weavers designs.