Bethlehem

About Bethlehem

Bethlehem is a Palestinian city located in the central West Bank, about 10 kilometers south of Jerusalem. Revered as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, Bethlehem is a major Christian pilgrimage destination, particularly during Christmas celebrations. The city blends rich historical heritage with contemporary Palestinian culture, offering visitors a unique glimpse into both ancient traditions and modern Middle Eastern life.

Historical Context

Bethlehem's history spans over 3,200 years, with the first mention dating to the 14th century BCE. The city gained its profound significance in Christianity as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the Gospels. During the Byzantine period, Emperor Constantine built the original Church of the Nativity in 339 CE over the cave traditionally believed to be Jesus' birthplace. This church, rebuilt by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century, is one of the oldest continuously operating churches in the world. Through centuries, Bethlehem changed hands among various empires, including Byzantine, Islamic, Crusader, Mamluk, Ottoman, British, Jordanian, and finally coming under Palestinian Authority control in 1995. Today, while maintaining its religious significance, Bethlehem faces modern challenges including the separation barrier built by Israel, which has impacted tourism and local economy. Despite this, the city remains resilient, balancing its role as a global pilgrimage site with the everyday life of its diverse population.