Bethlehem, located in the West Bank of Palestine, is a city steeped in religious and cultural history. It is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike, and it is home to some of the most stunning and important sites in the region. From ancient churches to stunning landscapes, Bethlehem has a lot to offer. Here are our top 20 places to see in Bethlehem, Palestine.
1. Church of the Nativity – This is one of the oldest churches in the world, and it is said to be the birthplace of Jesus. The church was built in the 4th century, and it is one of the most important sites in the Christian faith.
2. Manger Square – This is the main square in Bethlehem, and it is the location of the Church of the Nativity. The square is surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cafes, and it is a great place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the city.
3. Milk Grotto – This is a small cave that is said to be the place where the Holy Family stayed during their flight to Egypt. The cave is said to have miraculous powers, and it is a popular pilgrimage site.
4. Rachel’s Tomb – This is the traditional burial site of the biblical matriarch Rachel. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike.
5. Mar Saba – This is an ancient Greek Orthodox monastery located in the Judean Desert. It is an incredible site to explore, and it is home to some stunning views.
6. The Shepherd’s Fields – This is the traditional site of the angel’s announcement to the shepherds of Jesus’ birth. The site is a popular pilgrimage site, and it is home to some beautiful views.
7. Wadi Qelt – This is a stunning gorge located in the Judean Desert. It is a great place to explore, and it is home to some amazing wildlife.
8. Wadi Al-Nar – This is a stunning valley located in the Judean Desert. It is a great place to explore, and it is home to some amazing wildlife.
9. Dheisheh Refugee Camp – This is a refugee camp located in Bethlehem, and it is home to over 10,000 Palestinians. It is a great place to learn about the struggles of the Palestinian people.
10. The Olive Trees – Bethlehem is home to some of the oldest olive trees in the world. These trees are a symbol of peace and hope, and they are a popular tourist attraction.
11. The Separation Wall – This is a controversial structure that separates Israel from the West Bank. It is an important site to see, and it is a reminder of the ongoing conflict in the region.
12. The Herodion – This is an ancient fortress located near Bethlehem. It was built by King Herod, and it is an incredible site to explore.
13. Mar Elias Monastery – This is an ancient Greek Orthodox monastery located near Bethlehem. It is an incredible site to explore, and it is home to some stunning views.
14. The Mount of Olives – This is a mountain located near Jerusalem, and it is a popular pilgrimage site for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike.
15. The Dead Sea – This is the lowest point on earth, and it is a popular tourist destination. It is a great place to relax and take in the stunning views.
16. Jericho – This is an ancient city located near the Dead Sea. It is a popular tourist destination, and it is home to some incredible archaeological sites.
17. The Jordan River – This is a sacred river for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike. It is a great place to explore, and it is home to some stunning views.
18. Qasr al Yahud – This is a popular pilgrimage site for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike. It is located near the Jordan River, and it is a great place to explore.
19. Ma’in Hot Springs – This is a popular tourist destination located near the Dead Sea. It is a great place to relax and take in the stunning views.
20. Ein Karem – This is a small village located near Jerusalem. It is a popular pilgrimage site for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike.
Bethlehem is an incredible destination, and it is home to some of the most important sites in the region. From ancient churches to stunning landscapes, Bethlehem has a lot to offer. We hope that this list of the top 20 places to see in Bethlehem, Palestine has inspired you to visit this beautiful city.