Bethlehem is a city located in the West Bank in Israel. Christians believe that Jesus of Nazareth was born in Bethlehem. Bethlehem is also believed to be the birth place of King David, a central figure in Judaism, Christianity and Islam.
Bethlehem Christmas Celebration
Christians travel to Bethlehem for a yearly Christmas celebration. A midnight mass is traditionally held in the Church of the Nativity at the beginning of Christmas Day. Local Christians march and bang drums during the Christmas celebration. The 2008 celebrations drew more visitors than in the last eight years.Washington Post: Bethlehem Enjoys A Festive Christmas (December 25, 2008)
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Fast Facts
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Inhabitants
About 30,000
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Location
About 10 kilometers south of Jerusalem, the capital of Israel
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Fact:
Home of the Church of the Nativity, a church built over the location where Christians believe Jesus was born
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Fact:
Also home to Rachel's Tomb, believed to be the grave site of Rachel, a important figure in Judaism, Christianity and Islam
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Fact:
The majority of inhabitants are Muslim
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Fact:
Bethlehem also has a small Christian population
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Fact:
Home to a yearly Christmas celebration
