Bethlehem 2000

The millennium is about to turn. Bethlehem is
the town where what is now called our common
era began.Who does not know that Jesus was
born there, if only from Christmas carols, crèches
and all the sentimentality of Christmas? But very
few people are aware of the actual history and
culture of this town - its political and social
reality at the end of the twentieth century.
Known as the birth-place of Jesus Christ, Bethlehem
is one of the most important places of
pilgrimage and tourism in the world. Even nowadays
the impact of religion and history on this
town can be felt. However, Bethlehem is also part
of a region that was shaped by the Israeli-
Palestinian conflict in the twentieth century; for
nearly thirty years the town was under Israeli
occupation.
The book describes the history and culture,
religion and political situation of Bethlehem in
detail, as well as the traditions and everyday life of
the Palestinians. The variety and fascination of the
town are illustrated by 130 impressive color
photographs and rare historical images.
"The text and photos give a uniquely full view
of the town and its people; the reader is taken on
a trip to one of the most sacred cities of human
history. I am certain that this book will contribute
to promoting a dialog between cultures and
religions, a dialog that is a precondition for peace
between the peoples of Israel and Palestine."
From the foreword of Yasser Arafat
Mitri Raheb / Fred Strickert
BETHLEHEM 2000
Past and Present