Palestine

a Land of tradition, Resistance and Expectation

The Palestinian territory as a land with old historical background and a profound meaning has its position in both the ancient and recent times. The territory which is full of cultural heritage and is rich in tradition has been the witness of millennia of human civilization, conflict, and resistance. Now, even when encountering political issues, Palestine is still viewed as a beacon of hope and survival because despite all the political and social obstacles they have to face, the people continue to preserve their history, culture, and, in general, the future.

For an in-depth travel guide, visit the Official tourism guide for Palestinian

In case you want to find more information regarding this country, such as its flag, language, area, currency, and population, you can produce and download free  this information by visit in our Random Country Generator tool. 

Note: The tool provides rapid research access on relevant country facts that can be used both in school and personal application

Geographical Location

Palestine falls in the middle of the Middle East geographically with most of it being surrounded by Israel that borders it on the north, south and the west, Jordan to the east and Egypt to a part of the south west. The territory consists of two major parts of the West Bank which is landlocked and engulfs the city of Jerusalem and the narrow coastal Gaza Strip adjoining the Mediterranean. The strategic geographical importance of Palestine has attracted international attention since the medieval times in terms of diplomacy, religion and conflicts.

Topography and Natural Structures

Palestine contains all types of landscapes with green terrains of the West bank and the dry desert of the Gaza strip. The West Bank is partially mixed with Jordan as the Jordan River bisects the eastern side of the territory serving as the natural boundary with Jordan. Originally the Dead Sea is the lowest point in the world and it is the saltiest water in the world situated in the eastern region of Palestine. The region additionally boasts of large agricultural terrains such as olive groves and vineyards which are the key to Palestinian culture and economy.

Explore the stunning landscapes and rivers of Palestine through National Geographic’s detailed coverage.

Ancient History and Medieval History

The history of Palestine is dated to some ancient years and some great civilizations, such as Canaanites, Philistines, and Hebrews have lived in the region. It is the cradle of Judaism, Christianity and Islam therefore it is a holy land to billions of people in the whole world. Jerusalem on its part has a colossal religious significance given that it is the heart of these three major religions. Through the centuries Palestine has been a part of different empires (Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman Empires, ect.), each of them left a trace in cultural and architectural heritage of the region.

Colonial Period and the Mandate Period

Palestine has been the focus of international politics in the early 20th century especially during the British Mandate after World War I. These tensions were initiated by the Balfour Declaration of 1917 in which the British government showed support concerning the creation of a Jewish homeland in Palestine. As a result the region became the battleground between Jewish and Arab nationalist forces and in 1947 the United Nations partition plan was issued in which the area was proposed to be divided into separate Jewish and Arab states. But Arab cancellation of their share of the plan and the consequently ensuing 1948 Arab-Israeli war led to the exodus of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians leading to what is now termed as the Nakba or the “catastrophe.”

Contemporary Battles and The Palestinian Question

After the creation of Israel in 1948, decades of exile, dispossession and statelessness occurred among the Palestinian people. Israeli control of the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem took place as a result of the Six-Day War of 1967. Even in spite of all the efforts to bring peace contributed by the Oslo Accords in the 1990s, the conflict between Palestinians and Israelis continues endlessly, with self-determination, statehood and peace at times being fought over.

Religion and Ethnic Diversity

Palestine has always had a mixed group of people living there. Most Palestinians are Arab Muslims today but there are also a large number of Christians mostly in cities such as Bethlehem and Jerusalem. Since the time of occupation and displacement, Palestinians still managed to retain their rich cultural identity. The social fabric of the country comprises the Bedouins and the Druze among various ethnic groups of the country.

Ethnic customs and culture

Palestinian culture is family, community and traditional oriented. Storytelling, music, and dance are inseparable in preserving the Palestinian heritage. There is the classical Palestinian dance which is called the “Dabke” and is played during celebrations and gatherings and there is also the Palestinian embroidery known as the “Tatreez” and it is an art of their culture which they take pride in. Palestinian cuisine is also famous and some of its dishes are hummus dish, falafel, musakhan (thin chicken roasted with olive oil and onions).

Religious Festivals

Palestinians celebrate the major Islamic holidays which are Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha in great jubilations and closeness. These are the holidays, which come after the Ramadan and those days are dedicated to the willingness of Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son. Palestinian families also manage to spend time together in mutual prayer, fasting and charity that is celebrated with a festive meal as the sun sets. Christians in Palestine celebrate Christmas and Easter as well with Bethlehem as the centre of Christian pilgrimage.

National and Cultural Fairs

Although Palestine lacks an officiated national holiday because of political status, the 15th November is observed as Palestinian Independence, the time when the state of Palestine was declared in 1988. The Palestinian Prisoners Day is another notable day celebrated on 17th of April each year to show appreciation of the political prisoners in the Israeli jails. These celebrations and commemorations play a part in enhancing patriotism and unity among Palestinians.Agriculture and Natural Resources

Palestine is an agricultural nation, and olive cultivation is a major cultural element of Palestine. The olive tree of which the Palestinians have long been so proud being a symbol of Palestinian resilience is important in the economy as well as the social set up. Others involving Kelly farming products are fruits, vegetables and herbs although the sector has greatly been affected by Israeli occupation because of land and water access restrictions. Besides the agriculture sector, Palestine has abundant natural resources like the natural gas reserves at Gaza but they have not been fully used as a result of the constant conflict.

Manufacturing and Services

Even though the industrial sector in Palestine is small, it has displayed strength especially when it comes to textiles, stone and marble production and food processing. Most of the Palestinian companies depend on exportation, especially to other Arabic nations. There is a potential in growth of the service sector such as tourism especially in Jerusalem and Bethlehem where religious and other historical sites draw crowds. Nevertheless, Israeli blockade of Gaza and limitations in the West Bank throttled development of a great number of industries and small businesses.

Economic development and burdens.

Palestinian economy has many challenges like unemployment, poor access into the various global markets and reluctance to move freely. Foreign assistance to Palestinian economy is critical and the absence of economic self-sufficiency and political stability are a major drawback. This notwithstanding, Palestinians still have an incredible strength in the face of such strains.

Religious Sites and Historical Sites

Palestine is one of the countries in the world which is associated with the most notable religious and historical sites. Jerusalem, including the Old City, is a holy city to the Jews, Christians and Muslims. The Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Western Wall are the most major items of the Islamic and Jewish traditions, whereas the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is the item of the Christian reverence. Another major pilgrimage centre includes Bethlehem where Jesus Christ was born especially at Christmas times.

Cultural Landmarks, Natural Landmarks

In addition to the religious places, Palestine is the land of gorgeous landscapes and cultural riches. UNESCO World Heritage site is the ancient city of Hebron, the historic souks, as well as the Tomb of the Patriarchs. The Dead Sea presents to its visitors a different experience of the healing mud, mineral-rich water bodies. With theaters, galleries, and music festivals, Ramallah, the cultural capital of the West Bank, is a continent in itself with the exhibition of Palestine artists and arts.

Healthcare System

The healthcare system of Palestine is a combination of the public and the private provision, and both sectors are heavily dependent on external assistance. Although the health sector faces inadequate resources and threats of occupation, adequate services are offered in the health sector such as maternal and child care, emergency, and primary health. Nevertheless, healthcare is being an issue of concern, especially in Gaza where availability of medical supplies is restricted by blockade.

Education System

In Palestine, education is regarded very much and the literacy rates are one of the highest in the Arab world. Education is basically public and Palestinian universities in the West Bank and Gaza are renowned to have high-quality education. Nevertheless, the achievement of the teaching system is hampered by the current political condition and accessibility of movement, especially in Gaza.

Roads and Transports.

Occupation by Israel means that Palestine has a poor transportation infrastructure, and yet there are restrictions in using the roads as well as movement around cities. In the West Bank, there are two areas, separated under Palestinian Authority and under Israeli military control, which creates fragmented travel patterns. The flow of goods and people into Gaza, which is in a state of blockade, is just limited in terms of access to international airports and seaports. Yet, the population has its own transportation that consists of local bus systems and cabs.

Urban Development

Cities such as Ramallah, Bethlehem, and Nablah have undergone an urban development process, consisting of modern buildings, shopping malls and cultural institutions of Palestine. But this constant fighting and expanding of settlements by the Israelis has resulted in crowded living conditions in some of the regions especially at the refugee camps and Jerusalem.

Ideal Seasons

The most agreeable period to visit Palestine is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) where the weather is mild thus apt time to go and visit historical and cultural sites. Summer is hot; the desert is still hot and winters could rain especially in the North.

Social Events and Festivals

Visitors might wish to schedule their visit to coincide with such major religious holidays as Ramadan or Christmas, in Bethlehem especially. These festivals do provide a special chance of experiencing Palestinian culture and hospitality.

Conclusion: Palestine tomorrow

The future of Palestine is still farfetched but the hope of people still shines brightly. Palestinian self-determination and the struggle towards achieving the same has everything to do with their resilience, rich culture and determination to fight to save their identity and heritage. Nevertheless, Palestine is a land of hope, heritage and pride.

Frequently-asked-questions

When is the prime time to tour Palestine?

It is in spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) that you should come as the weather is just the right one to make sightseeing favorable.

Which are the most popular sights in Palestine?

The major attractions in the country are the Old City of Jerusalem, the Church of Holy Sepulchre, the Al-Aqsa Mosque, Bethlehem and the Dead Sea.

Which are the languages spoken in Palestine?

The official language is Arabic with English being the second most spoken even in cities and towns.

What are the key issues of Palestine nowadays?

Its ordeals can be simply characterized by the political instability, the Israeli occupation, lack of resources, and movement limitations.

Is Palestine tourist friendly?

Palestine is largely peaceable to visitors but tourists should watch the political situation and obey the advice given by the locals.

Which are the cultural festivals to be experienced in Palestine?

Bethlehem also provides a special cultural experience, and you should enjoy such religious holidays as Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Christmas.

Palestine is a country with a lot of history, some culture and strength. It will provide a visitor with an opportunity to get to know one of the most outstanding areas in the world in terms of religious and cultural heritage and the present-day struggle at peace and justice.