A Scholarly Journey To Bethlehem
Bethlehem: City of Heritage and History in the West Bank
Bethlehem, in the West Bank under Palestinian Authority, is located 10 kilometers south of Jerusalem. With a population of 30,000 residents (excluding refugees), it serves as a cultural center. Bethlehem is significant for Muslims and Christians alike as the birthplace of Jesus, featuring the Church of the Nativity built over the traditional site of his birth.
Educational Trip to Bethlehem
01.
Title: A Journey Through Time to the City of Stars: Exploring Bethlehem with ICOMOS Palestine
ICOMOS Palestine embarked on a special cultural journey to the city of Bethlehem to introduce participants to the importance of this ancient city and its rich history. The trip included visits to many archaeological and historical sites, including the Church of the Nativity, the Bethlehem Museum, and the Separation Wall. The trip also included discussion sessions with experts in the fields of history and culture, giving participants the opportunity to learn more about Bethlehem's culture and heritage.
02.
Title: The Church of the Nativity: An Architectural Masterpiece Embodying a Rich History
The Church of the Nativity, built in the 6th century AD, was the first stop on our journey. This church is a unique architectural masterpiece, blending Byzantine and Roman styles. We toured the church, enjoyed seeing its magnificent mosaics and stunning artwork, and learned about its long history and cultural significance.
03.
Title: Bethlehem Museum: A Tale of Civilizations Told Through Artifacts
Next, we headed to the Bethlehem Museum, which houses a wide collection of artifacts that tell the story of the city through the ages. We saw exhibits from various civilizations that have succeeded Bethlehem, including the Canaanite, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic civilizations. We also listened to a detailed explanation from specialized guides about the importance of these artifacts and their role in understanding the city's history and culture.
04.
Title: The Separation Wall: A Scar on the Homeland's Body
One of the moving stops on our journey was visiting the Separation Wall, which separates the city of Bethlehem from the rest of the Palestinian territories. We stood in front of this massive concrete wall and listened to a painful explanation of its devastating effects on the lives of Palestinians. We also expressed our solidarity with the Palestinian people in their struggle for freedom and justice.
05.
Bethlehem: Hope Beats in the Heart of Palestine
Bethlehem is an ancient Palestinian city of immense religious, historical, and cultural significance. Despite the challenges it faces, Bethlehem possesses great potential for development and progress. Palestinians are diligently striving to build a better future for this sacred city.