Palestine

Overview

The Palestinian territories are made up of the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip. The area holds sites sacred to Christianity, Islam and Judaism.

History

The region was ruled by many empires, including the Romans, Byzantines, Arab caliphates and Ottomans, before the British Mandate after the First World War. Since 1948 its status has been at the centre of the Israeli–Palestinian conflict.

Food & culture

Musakhan (roast chicken with sumac and onions on taboon bread), maqluba and knafeh from Nablus are well-known dishes, along with olive oil and za'atar.

Wildlife

Mountain gazelles and hundreds of species of migratory birds pass through the Jordan Valley.

Festivals & events

Christmas in Bethlehem draws pilgrims from around the world, and Ramadan and Eid are widely celebrated.

Things to see

The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, the old city of Hebron, Jericho, Nablus and the Mar Saba monastery.

Interesting facts

Jericho is often described as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

City guides

• RamallahCapital city
• BethlehemAncient town of the Nativity
• JerichoAncient oasis below sea level

Cities & towns I’ve visited

• Bethlehem
• Jericho
• Jerusalem
• Ramallah

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Palestine

3 of 6 visited. See every site I've been to.

• Church of the Nativity 2012
• Palestine: Land of Olives and Vines – Cultural Landscape of Southern Jerusalem, Battir 2014
• Tell es-Sultan 2012
• Old City of Hebron 2017
• Sebastia
• Tell Umm el-'Amr 2024

My photos from Palestine

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Plan your trip to Palestine

• HotelsBooking.com
• Tours and ticketsGetYourGuide
• FlightsKiwi.com
• Attraction ticketsTiqets
• Airport parking, lounges and transfersHoliday Extras
• Car hireAuto Europe
• Mobile data (eSIM)AiraloCode DAN9406 for money off
• GuidebooksAmazon

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Neighbours

• Egypt
• Israel
• Jordan