1.   Signs of a more recent past also crowd the square.

2.   Despite the large numbers of people crowding the square, the atmosphere was subdued and almost eerily silent.

3.   Hundreds of citizens crowded the square to help in the rescue efforts.

4.   In Manger Square, workers mopped sidewalks and picked up litter from Christmas Eve, when thousands of pilgrims and Palestinians crowded the square.

5.   In Manger Square, workers mopped sidewalks and picked up litter from Christmas Eve, when thousands of pilgrims from abroad and Palestinians crowded the square.

6.   Many fans with bottles of champagne began crowding the square before noon Monday to get a spot near the podium.

7.   On Monday, many fans armed with bottles of champagne began crowding the square before noon to catch a spot near the podium.

8.   On Monday, fans armed with bottles of champagne began crowding the square before noon to catch a spot near the podium.