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Israel houses a number of cities and towns that are considered as pilgrimage spots for the Christian community. The city of Bethlehem is one of Israel’s popular destinations. Regarded as the birthplace of Jesus Christ, Bethlehem means the ‘house of bread’ in Hebrew. Bethlehem is considered as a major tourism hub in the country and is inhabited by the oldest Christian Community in the world. Bethlehem in Israel is situated 10 kilometers from the main city of Jerusalem. The city of Bethlehem is a conglomeration of two towns - Beit Jala and Beit Sahour. Bethlehem houses the largest Palestinian Christian Community in the Middle East. The state of Israel is also considered as the birth place of David, the second King of Israel. The city has witnessed major uprisings and destruction during the Roman and Byzantine periods. The city was completely destroyed during the Samaritan Revolt in 529 AD. The churches and major historical monuments were destroyed during this time. But after such destructions, Bethlehem prospered under the rule of the Crusaders. During the first half of the twelfth century most of the existing churches were built in the city. The war for Independence started in 1947 and saw the city of Bethlehem included in the special enclave of Jerusalem under the United Nations. Bethlehem has been a major site of confrontation for the Palestine and Israeli armies and has seen a rapid decline in the Christian population. But the last few years, the tourists have started returning to this holy land of the Christian community. The city of Bethlehem still retains the aura and charm of an Oriental town. The markets and the country folk still reflect on the historical significance of this city in Israel. One of the most important tourist attractions in Bethlehem is the site of Rachel's tomb, a significant holy site in Judaism. The site is located at the outskirts of Bethlehem and houses the largest Christian communities in the Middle East. Another important site in Bethlehem is the Church of the Nativity. The church is situated in the city center and is built by Constantine the Great during his reign in 330 AD. The Church is built over the Holy Crypt, the site of Jesus Christ’s birth. The Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem is the oldest existing Christian church in the world. Today, Bethlehem is also known for its traditional handicrafts including olive woodcarving and pearl jewelry. The handicrafts of Bethlehem have become a major money spinner and have converted into a major industry in Israel.
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