Things to do in  Palestinian Territories

An ancient city in the West Bank in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Bethlehem is home to many significant religious sites, including the Church of The Nativity in Manger Square, believed by Christians to be the birthplace of Jesus.

The Church of the Nativity encompasses a grotto where, according to Christain scripture, Jesus was born. Situated in Manger Square in Bethlehem, on the West Bank of the Palestinian territories, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed church is one of Christianity’s holiest places.

Jericho is an ancient biblical town, with early settlements traced back 10,000 years, possibly making it the earliest site of human civilization. Located in the occupied Palestinian Territories, and reached by traveling through the Judean Desert, Jericho is filled with archaeological ruins, monasteries, mosques, and other religious and historical sights.

Just a short stroll away from Manger Square, Milk Grotto is a historical church in Bethlehem. It’s where Christians believe the Virgin Mary nursed an infant Jesus while the Holy Family sought refuge during the Massacre of the Innocents. Legend has it that a drop of milk fell to the ground, turning the place white—hence the name Milk Grotto.

Famed as the home of the Dead Sea Scrolls—a cache of Hebrew manuscripts that transformed understanding of the Jewish and Christian religions—the Qumran Caves form the heart of Qumran National Park. Not all caves are open, but the rugged desert landscapes, small museum, lookout trail, and archaeological site all appeal.