Beit Jala, a small Palestinian city located on the western side of the West Bank, is home to a rich history and culture. From its ancient churches and monasteries to its picturesque views of Jerusalem, Beit Jala is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty and culture of Palestine. Here are the top 20 places to see in Beit Jala, Palestine.
1. Church of the Nativity: Located in the center of Beit Jala, this ancient church is said to be the birthplace of Jesus Christ. It is one of the oldest churches in the world and is a major pilgrimage site for Christians. The church is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Shepherd’s Field: This is the site where the angels appeared to the shepherds to announce the birth of Jesus. It is located just outside of Beit Jala and is a popular pilgrimage site for Christians.
3. Cremisan Monastery: This 19th century monastery is located on a hilltop overlooking Beit Jala and Jerusalem. It is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the history and culture of the region.
4. Beit Jala Old City: This is the oldest part of Beit Jala and is home to a number of historic sites, including churches, mosques, and old homes. Visitors can explore the narrow streets and alleyways of the old city and soak up the atmosphere.
5. Mar Elias Monastery: This ancient monastery is located on a hilltop overlooking Beit Jala and is home to a number of historic sites, including a church and a museum.
6. Beit Jala Museum: This museum is located in the old city of Beit Jala and showcases the history and culture of the region. It is a great place to learn about the history of Palestine.
7. Beit Jala Synagogue: This synagogue is located in the old city and is one of the oldest in the region. It is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the religious history of Palestine.
8. Bethlehem Zoo: Located just outside of Beit Jala, this zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and giraffes. It is a great place to spend the day with the family.
9. Mount of Olives: This is a mountain located just outside of Beit Jala and is home to a number of historic sites, including the Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of the Ascension. It is a great place to explore and take in the views of Jerusalem.
10. Rachel’s Tomb: This is the traditional burial site of the matriarch Rachel and is a popular pilgrimage site for Jews. It is located just outside of Beit Jala.
11. St. George’s Monastery: This is a Greek Orthodox monastery located on the Mount of Olives and is home to a number of historic sites, including a church, a museum, and a library.
12. Beit Sahour: This is a small town just outside of Beit Jala and is home to a number of historic sites, including the Church of the Shepherds and the Shepherd’s Field.
13. Dheisheh Refugee Camp: This is one of the largest refugee camps in the West Bank and is home to over 15,000 Palestinian refugees. It is a great place to learn about the plight of the Palestinian people.
14. Battir: This is an ancient village located just outside of Beit Jala and is home to a number of historic sites, including a Roman aqueduct and an ancient olive grove.
15. Deir Ghassaneh: This is an ancient monastery located just outside of Beit Jala and is home to a number of historic sites, including a church and a museum.
16. Ain Karem: This is a small village located just outside of Beit Jala and is home to a number of historic sites, including the Church of John the Baptist and the Church of the Visitation.
17. Artas: This is a small village located just outside of Beit Jala and is home to a number of historic sites, including the Church of the Multiplication of Loaves and Fishes and the Church of the Nativity of St. John.
18. Taibe: This is a small village located just outside of Beit Jala and is home to a number of historic sites, including the Church of the Annunciation and the Church of St. Joseph.
19. El-Khader: This is a small village located just outside of Beit Jala and is home to a number of historic sites, including the Church of the Nativity and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.
20. Beit Jala Valley: This is a picturesque valley located just outside of Beit Jala and is home to a number of historic sites, including the Church of the Nativity and the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. It is a great place to explore and take in the views of Jerusalem.
Beit Jala is a great destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty and culture of Palestine. From its ancient churches and monasteries to its picturesque views of Jerusalem, Beit Jala is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the region. Make sure to check out these top 20 places to see in Beit Jala, Palestine!