The entrance to the cave of Milk Grotto in Bethlehem is through a small arch of the Franciscan chapel built above it. Above the entrance of the cave, a photo shows Mary clutching baby Jesus in her arms. Visitors take stairs which lead to another door which opens into the cave and a church. It is believed that the Holy Family took refuge here during the Slaughter of the Innocents, before their flight into Egypt. On left side of the cave and here it shows Mary breast feeding Jesus.
Rock inside the Cave
This grotto is hollowed out of soft white rock and this rock is considered holy by new mothers. Some women mix soft white chalk with their food, and praying to Our Lady of the Milk for increase in their milk. According to tradition a drop of Mary’s milk fell upon the stone and it turned white.
People send letters and baby pictures from around the world to the Milk Grotto for good luck and blessings. A corridor or tunnel leads to other part of the cave where there is another church.