Cattolici e protestanti in Terra Santa. Aspetti culturali di una rivalità secolare (1841-1948)

This note aims to investigate the challenge between the various Christian denominations in the Holy See in the 19th and 20th century. It will pay particular attention to the contrast between Catholics and Protestants and its influence and impact on three different fields: pilgrimages; Biblical archaeology and sacred monumentalization; the cultural, educational and social institutions. The aim is to highlight the long durée of this contrast and investigate how it has influenced the activities and presence of the Christian denomination in the Middle East. The perception of the success, real or inferred, of the Protestant proselytism deeply influenced the character of Catholic presence in the region. It led the Roman Church to reinforce some traditional aspects and issues, due to the necessity to respond to the Protestant challenge. However, many Protestant initiatives were motivated by the will to replace Catholic influence in the region, presenting a different paradigm in the Holy Land and a renewed use of the Christian Holy Places.