The Sanctuary of the Shepherds has the appearance of a modern Christian church of admirable architectural design. It was built during the mid-fifties of this century, and designed by the Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi, who has left numerous fine examples of his work all over the Holy Land. From the outside the building is reminiscent in its essential lines of nomadic tents. The luminous interior is circular. A ring of low arches marks off the sanctum where the high altar stands, and supports the tambour of the cupola, which is decorated with angels.