Wooden doors and windows in the Church of the Nativity: Evaluation of biotic and abiotic decay and proposals of interventions

Abstract

Abstract During the survey carried out as part of the Restoration of the Roof of the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem project supported by the Palestinian National Authority the biotic and abiotic decay of the wooden doors and windows was evaluated in situ in the Church of the Nativity, Bethlehem, Palestine. Recommendations were made regarding conservation, maintenance and restoration methods on the basis of the findings obtained from the data. One important result of this research was the definition of the state of preservation of the Armenian door, which features unique, finely carved panels. A number of suggestions and guidelines have been issued regarding the conservation and maintenance of this door.