Israel & Jordan 2023: Bethlehem, part 1

After a very full and fulfilling half day spent in Old Jerusalem, it was time to visit Bethlehem. This was an Optional Tour (which just means extra fee to take this guided tour) and the whole group signed up for it.

So after leaving Jerusalem we all drove out, the bus stopped at random and a lady got on the bus and Simon got off. The lady was going to be our guide in Bethlehem. Simon couldn't go into Bethlehem because it's inside Palestine region. So much politics. However, we were all excited to go to Bethlehem.

So it was such a surprise that the first stop we made was at store that specializes in olive wood handicrafts and carvings. I really was looking forward to the church visit since we just went shopping in Jerusalem. But while others completely abhor these shopping stops on guided tours, I don't completely dislike it, since I have complete control of the shopping situation (at least that's what I tell myself). Seriously, this was a chance to see wood carvings that are spectacular, in my opinion, and way exceeded my expectations. While the store had these large carvings that are such a joy to look at, there also were bargain bins that carried keychains, crosses, etc - small items for small prices. I was there picking items to bring home to co-workers and family and friends.

Everyone was clueless, including Lourdes who was our guide for Bethlehem, how and why there was a car up on the tree. A favorite photo subject though, I'm sure.

The large showroom. They also sold jewelry.

This was my favorite, the Last Supper. I did not inquire about the price, I was scared.

The Pieta

The Nativity Scene was very popular - it came in all sizes.

If you love carvings/art you'll surely enjoy your time here.

Finally shopping time was over and back to the bus for a short drive to town. We were let off a block or so away because the big bus could not maneuver near the church.

CHURCH OF THE NATIVITY

This is the facade of the Church of Nativity. Please click on the link which will lead you to Wikipedia for all the details about the church. May I clarify that this tour is NOT a pilgrimmage tour, so the Biblical references did not go deeper than the surface info.

The facade was so bleak and was a bit disappointing, then I remembered the church was really old.

Entrance from outside.

Door looking from inside. The door (called Door of Humility) was specifically built low, we were told, to discourage invaders, add a layer of security, since invaders on horseback could not just barge inside the church. I'm a shortie and I still duck a bit to get inside.

Another door, higher this time, to get inside.

INTERIOR:

Restored mosaics.

There are 44 columns painted, some of which are painted with images of saints.

Under the main floor is the place believed to have been the birthplace of Jesus Christ called the Grotto of the Nativity.

Steps to the grotto.

The grotto is a cave. It could be very very cramped.

Under the main altar, a silver star with 14 undulating rays marks the location traditionally claimed to be that of Jesus' birth place.. For me, it was a very holy place.

One by one we paid our respects by kissing the star, or touching it.

Apologies for the dark photo, light was very minimal in the cave. Near the silver star marker is the grotto that marks the traditional site where Mary laid the newborn baby in the manger.

Back on the main floor, the very golden altar and colorful collection of lamps. There are very interesting lamps all over the church.

On one of the columns, there are five holes in the form of a cross. No one knows who made the cross, but the guide said the holes correspond to the way Jesus' hand in the Christ the King image/icon.

To be continued.....