Manger’s Square

Manger Square is an important spot in the city of Bethlehem near the West Bank of the Palestinian territories. Named after the manger where Christians believe Jesus was born, near the Church of the Nativity, possibly the oldest existing church in the world. Also around Manger Square you will find the Mosque of Omar, the only mosque in the city. You will also find streets names connected to Jesus, including Star street and the street of the Nativity.

Between 1998 and 1999, the square was renovated to relieve traffic congestion and today is only pedestrian. It is primarily a meeting place for locals and for many pilgrims in the city. There are rows of vegetation such as Celtis australis, lots of people sitting on benches and fountains made of beige marble.

Thousands of Christians flock to Bethlehem to celebrate Christmas. A parade of ‘scouts’ march to the sound of flutes, drums and bagpipes, mark the beginning of the festivities in Manger Square, opposite to the Basilica of the Nativity.