Al-Ofoq Foundation for Youth Development organized a historical and environmental tour in Bethlehem as part of the activities of the project aimed at enhancing the skills of students at Al-Quds University, funded by the Wafa Foundation for Development and Capacity Building. The participating students in the life skills course began their journey from Manger Square, where they received a detailed explanation about the main institutions and centers surrounding the square. They then proceeded to the Church of the Nativity, where the students listened to an explanation about the significance and status of the church and the Israeli siege it endured during the Second Intifada.
After that, the students headed to the Milk Grotto to learn about its importance. During the tour, they stopped to observe the olive wood industry in the city and its global significance. The participants then took a tour through the alleys of the Old Town, stopping at the famous Al-Khatib oven, and reached the Bad Museum of Art and History in Bethlehem, which houses important artifacts documenting the stages of the olive tree from cultivation to storage. The museum director, Ms. Iman Al-Maghrabi, provided a comprehensive explanation of the work and significance of the items in the museum.
Following this, the participants took a break in one of the most beautiful courtyards in Bethlehem, the Syriac Courtyard, where Sami Akhmeis welcomed them with traditional songs and the special tea served to guests from around the world. After the break, the participants continued their journey on Star Street, one of the most important historical streets in the city, and toured the Mosaic Center to learn about this craft, experience the work of the artisans there, and photograph the artistic pieces inside. The tour continued past "Abu Fouad" oven, reaching the Catholic Work Roundabout, "Ras Aftis."
After a lunch break in Bethlehem, the students headed to the tourist village of Battir. During the journey to Battir, a detailed explanation was provided about the three refugee camps in the governorate, as well as information about the Banksy Hotel, known for having the worst hotel view in the world, along with general information about Bethlehem Governorate. As soon as the Al-Afaq team finished their talk, the village of Battir welcomed the delegation with breathtaking views of beauty and splendor. The tour of Battir began with an explanation about the Roman bath and Ain Al-Balad, leading to the Roman pool, and concluded with a visit to the Ottoman railway amidst an atmosphere of joy, happiness, and beautiful interaction.
