Ancient city revered as Jesus' birthplace. Old City's narrow streets and Church of the Nativity draw pilgrims. Local crafts include embroidery and olive-wood carvings.
Bethlehem, a city of profound religious significance, lies just 10 km south of Jerusalem in the West Bank. This Palestinian city is known for the Church of the Nativity, believed to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ. As you walk through Bethlehem's ancient streets, you'll encounter sacred sites, lively markets, and local artisans crafting traditional olive wood carvings and mother-of-pearl artwork. The city's rich history intertwines with its present-day culture, evident in its religious landmarks, local cuisine, and traditional crafts.
The Church of the Nativity
The Church of the Nativity stands as the centerpiece of Bethlehem's religious sites. Emperor Constantine built this church in the 4th century, making it one of the oldest continuously operating churches in the world. The church sits above a cave that Christian tradition identifies as Jesus' birthplace. You can descend into the Grotto of the Nativity to see the silver star marking the exact spot where Jesus is said to have been born.
Exploring Manger Square
Manger Square forms the heart of Bethlehem and remains active year-round, especially during the Christmas season. The Church of the Nativity occupies one side of the square, while the Mosque of Omar stands on the other, reflecting the city's religious diversity. As you walk through the square, you'll find souvenir shops, cafes, and street vendors selling traditional Palestinian snacks.
Palestinian Culture and Crafts
Bethlehem serves as a center for Palestinian culture, particularly in its arts and traditional crafts. The city is known for its olive wood carvings and mother-of-pearl artwork. You can watch artisans at work in many of the shops around Manger Square. For a deeper look into traditional Palestinian embroidery and costumes, visit the Palestinian Heritage Center.
Local Cuisine
You can sample Palestinian cuisine at various eateries in Bethlehem. Try the falafel and hummus at Afteem, a well-known restaurant near the Mosque of Omar. For a more upscale dining experience, visit the Hosh Al-Syrian Guesthouse, where chef Fadi Kattan creates modern interpretations of traditional Palestinian dishes.
Getting There and Around
Most visitors arrive in Bethlehem from Jerusalem. Bus 231 runs regularly from the Damascus Gate in Jerusalem to Bethlehem. The journey takes about an hour due to checkpoints. Once in Bethlehem, you can walk to many sites, but taxis are available for longer trips.
Political Considerations
Bethlehem is located in the West Bank, under Palestinian Authority control. Be aware of the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and check current travel advisories before your trip. Most tourists visit without incident, but it's important to respect local customs and be aware of your surroundings.
