Bethlehem: A Stroll Around the Neighborhoods

With Joseph Al Ama

About the Tour:

While the birthplace of Jesus is the center of Bethlehem, the various historical neighborhoods surrounding the nativity scene are beautiful antiquities in their own rights. Since the birthplace of Jesus in the outskirts of Bethlehem thousands of years ago, each of Bethlehem’s 7 neighborhoods have gained their own unique traditions, songs, and stories connected to the nativity story and beyond. On this tour, you will find out which neighborhood the magi walked and where the Virgin Mary reportedly breastfed Jesus. Beyond the stories of the early pilgrims, we will also immerse ourselves in the current vibrant life of these neighborhoods by visiting families, trying local foods, and exploring Bethlehem’s old market.

Curated By:
Joseph Al Ama

Tour Duration:
Half-day tour (approx. 4 hours)

What to Bring:
Passport and visa are required to pass the checkpoint. Comfortable shoes and water are recommended on this tour.

About the Guide

Joseph Al Ama

With Joseph Al Ama is one of the original Christian families of Bethlehem. His family, for generations, has been welcoming tourists on their pilgrimage. He places deep importance on the Nativity Church, but he also loves introducing visitors to the stories and life around the Church. Through him, you will come back with first-hand experience of Bethlehem’s local life, small quirks, and history.

Tour Highlights

Visit Bethlehem’s neighborhoods and the Syriac Quarter Explore the Souk and authentic olive wood factories Taste the food of Bethlehem at one of the oldest restaurants there Hear from Palestinian Youth at Catholic Action Cultural Center

Tour Details

We will meet at the Bethlehem Central Bus Station. From there, we will start the tour with a visit to the Al-Najara, located west of The Nativity and believed to be the oldest district in the city. On the way, we will pass by the Omar Mosque and Nativity Church and talk about the coexistence of Muslims and Christians in Bethlehem. We will visit the Peace center and talk about the history of the place and the current activities arranged by the center. Afterwards, we will also walk through the neighborhoods of Al-Anatra, Harzat, Al-Qawaqsa, Al Fawaghreh, Al tarajmeh, and the Syriac quarter. We will learn about the history and importance as we walk through each one. After a special Palestinian tea break, we will hear from the Terra Santa scouts, one of the oldest scout groups in Bethlehem. We end the program by having lunch at the Eftim Falafel Restaurant located in the square of the Church of the Nativity.

Testimonials

I feel like I know Bethlehem on a much more intimate level after this experience. Joseph not only introduced us to wonderful stories and tales, but also talked about small quirks about the city, from how people park their cars to bigger things like where most locals like to eat.

oseph was a great conversationalist and bridge between us and the people of Bethlehem. On the tour, we had opportunities to converse with the elderly on their balconies and interact with children on the streets! It was really cool for me to see Bethlehem in this way.