The Earliest Graffiti in Latin Characters in the Church of the Nativity

Research on the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem reveals eight previously unpublished graffiti inscribed in Latin characters, dating back to the Carolingian period and the Kingdom of Jerusalem. These inscriptions, predating the more numerous pilgrim graffiti from the 14th to 16th centuries, showcase a diverse range of graphic gestures, messages (including names, prayers, and alphabets), reflecting the written practices of Western authors during these periods. The study highlights the significance of these early Latin inscriptions as a sample of historical written communication, offering insights into the origins and diversity of their creators.

(Ed.). (2026). The Earliest Graffiti in Latin Characters in the Church of the Nativity. Writing in the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, 173–185. https://doi.org/10.1484/m.celama-eb.5.151597