Bethlehem
Bethlehem, is a fascinating place full of holy sites and historical sites. But outside of the city, there are more surprises to explore, such as the stunning Mar Saba Monastery nestled in the heart of a large valley. The rolling hills to the south are home to the lush, tree-lined village of Battir, while the Beit Jala and Beit Sahour suburbs of Bethlehem are full of adventure.
The landscape of Bethlehem, its rolling green hills, is one of the most spectacular in Palestine.Bethlehem is understandably its fair share of tourists and is the birthplace of Jesus Christ (you can even visit the exact place where he was born). But this beautiful city is full of biblical heritage and wonders that cannot be ignored.
Bethlehem itself is now a predominantly Muslim city, where different religions live side by side in relative harmony, which is in stark contrast to the huge, ugly man-made walls covered with turrets that delimit Bethlehem and prevent any people through Israel and Palestine.
Legendary British graffiti artist Banksy made his message clear through a series of works on and near the walls, as well as powerful messages from Palestinians and their supporters around the world.
What To Do
Everyone associates Bethlehem with the birth story; the birth of Mary, Joseph, the Shepherd, and Jesus Christ. Street names like Manger Street and Star Street are a constant reminder that this is Bethlehem as described in the New Testament. Therefore, any visit to the city - unrecognizable in the depiction of a quaint village on Christmas cards - must include a trip to the sacred scene itself, which now sits under the altar of the Church of the Nativity. It is set in a cave - not a stable - where Mary appears to have given birth to Jesus, and the exact location is marked with a star and lined with candles. It's a strange and humble place, but Bethlehem offers more than just places of worship.
The city is full of life and has enough tourist attractions to fill at least a day, if not longer. The Manger Square next to the Church of the Nativity is the focal point, while the striking Mosque of Omar on the other side highlights Bethlehem's religious conversion. Milky Grotto Road unsurprisingly leads to Milky Grotto, a beautiful underground white chapel where Mary is said to have spilled a drop of her breast milk while feeding Jesus. The Old Bethlehem Museum on Paul VI Street is filled with indigenous and traditional exhibits, as well as a gift shop. On the hill is a bustling old town with a market (open air market) that rivals any of the largest cities on the West Bank, with beautiful narrow stone streets and staircases.
There's no shortage of places to shop for souvenirs and handmade gifts, and the streets around Manger Square are lined with shops. Built in 1886, the Church of the Nativity with its ornate spire rises above the Old Town buildings and also houses a cultural centre and school. Taxi drivers around Manger Square offer visitors a tour out of town to see various works by British graffiti artist Banksy. Banksy's tour ends at the famous wall the Israelis built to contain the Palestinian population.
Where to stay
Bethlehem has no shortage of dining options suited to its tourist status. There are restaurants around Manger Square and the surrounding streets, as well as the more down-to-earth Shawarma in the Old Town. The market also has a fresh fruit and vegetable farm worth a visit, even if you don't plan to buy anything just to admire the colourful and disorganised fresh produce. where to stay You can't sleep in a hotel if you want to stay in Bethlehem. There are many large hotels, usually cheaper than Jerusalem, as well as smaller resorts.
Giulia
25th Dec, 2022The vehicle was beautiful and comfortable. Great travel!
Cecilia
25th Dec, 2022Amazing! Great experience!
Giulia
25th Dec, 2022The organisation was perfect. The vehicles are very clean and modern. We will definitely call George again.