Bethlehem is a small city 5 miles south of Jerusalem in the Judean Mountains. Translated "house of bread" it is the home of many events in both the New Testament and the Old Testament. In Bethlehem Boaz became Ruth’s kinsman redeemer and husband, Rachel was buried on the way  to Bethlehem (Genesis 48:7), King David traditionally was born in Bethlehem and crowned king by Solomon there and the New Testament books of Matthew and Luke record it as the birthplace of Jesus.

In the heart of Bethlehem's Old City is Manger Square. At this square the Church of the Nativity can be visited with the traditional holy crypt from the birth of Jesus. Also in the Old City, the milk grotto can be visited where tradition has as the hiding place of the Holy Family from King Herod. 

Bethlehem today is a traditional place for Christians to visit during the Christmas holiday when scenes of the nativity are throughout the town.

*  Under the jurisdiction of the Palestinian Authority.  

Visiting the site may require special arrangements, including coordination for transportation and guides

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