“Bethlehem Treasures” a historic Palestinian Christmas figurine shop has relocated to Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, opening a new chapter for its artisans displaced by the conflict in Gaza. Bethlehem Treasures, a 150-year-old family business from the West Bank city of Bethlehem, opened its doors on Carrer d’Escudellers, 56, in October.
Your browser does not support the video tag.
The shop’s future beyond the festive season depends on the reception its handcrafted items receive in its new home. So, this isn’t just a commercial venture.
Palestinian Christmas Shop Brings Centuries of Craft to Catalonia This is the first Bethlehem Treasures store to open outside of Palestine. Mickel told Tot Barcelona that the idea to come to the Catalan capital arose directly from the conflict.
The store sells and manufactures Nativity scenes and Christmas decorations. Its inventory, visible on its Instagram profile, includes a wide range of items, most crafted from olive wood.
Mickel has future plans to sell traditional Catalan ‘caganer’ figurines, also made from olive wood. A New Home Amid Municipal Cooperation The arrival of the Palestinian Christmas shop coincides with Barcelona City Council’s push for its ‘District 11 Cities of Palestine’ project.
The plan involves stable collaboration from city technicians on projects related to urban planning, health, accessibility, and education. One of the cooperation agreements has been signed specifically with Bethlehem.
For now, the artisans of Bethlehem Treasures hope their centuries-old craft finds a new audience and a sustainable future on the streets of Barcelona’s historic centre. Join our WhatsApp broadcast channel for instant news updates!.
Source: Read original article.
