Welcome to the Salesian Artistic Centre of Bethlehem

Olive Wood is a Palestinian symbol. Olive trees are spread all over the land, and for thousands of years they have represented a resource of crucial importance for the local population.

Nativity scenes, statues, boxes, chandeliers, trays… are just a few items produced in the Olive Wood workshop, which is the most extensive of the Artistic Centre.

The workshop comprises two working spaces, one in the basement and the other on the ground floor. In the basement olive wood logs are cut into small pieces before being roughly carved and shaped. Afterwards the pieces are sent upstairs, where the carving work is finalized in detail.