Bethlehem (Modern Bethlehem/Bayt Lahm, West Bank, Palestine)
Jesus was born in this modest town, which is also David’s hometown. The name endured through various rulers, slightly shifting to “Bayt Lahm” in Arabic after the 7th century CE. Now, Bethlehem, West Bank, Palestine, draws pilgrims to the Church of the Nativity. Artisans craft olive wood nativity scenes sold to visitors who walk streets where Mary and Joseph once sought shelter.
