The Evangelical Lutheran Christmas Church has functioned in Bethlehem since 1893. It was designed by a well-known German architect who aimed to incorporate the traditions of Bethlehem into the building. For example, he decided that the steeple of the church, with its conical shape, would resemble the traditional hat of women in Bethlehem from the 19th century. During the construction process, the architect was astonished at the precision and fine-quality of work of the Palestinian stone cutters.
The Church has outstanding stained glass windows depicting various Biblical images, which came to Bethlehem from the Emperor Stained Glass Factory in Germany. The bells of the Church tower were donated by Emperor Wilhelm II of Germany and the Church’s organ was manufactured in Berlin, around 1890.
