Hebron/Khalil, located 30 kilometers south of Jerusalem, is the largest city in the West-Bank and features two universities:  Hebron University and Palestine Polytechnic University. It is one of the oldest and continuously inhabited cities of Palestine and is known for its famous historic sites, including the tomb of Abraham, The Russian Orthodox Church, and Abraham’s Oak Holy Trinity Monastery.
Hebron, Palestine, is a Holy City
These sites make Hebron one of the holiest places for three of the world’s largest religions – Islam, Judaism, and Christianity – and particularly appealing for Israeli settlers who have taken over half of the city. For this reason, while in Hebron, you will also be able to gain a personal impression of Palestinian-Israeli relations.
Brief History of Hebron, Palestine
In its early history, Hebron was under Byzantine rule, after which it fell prey to the Crusaders. In succession, the Ayyubids, Mamelukes, Ottoman Empire, and an Egyptian General all laid claim to Hebron. And in recent history, Hebron was occupied by the British forces, the Jordanian kingdom, and lastly, and currently, is under Israeli occupation. Today, the city is divided into H1 (Palestinian Authority) and H2 (Israeli Authority).
Culture in Hebron, Palestine
From poetry nights to hanging out in local parks or just meeting friends on the streets, Hebron offers a variety of aspects of city life. Khalili’s – the inhabitants of Hebron/Khalil – have a great sense of humor and are warm and inviting. As is culturally normal, men and women tend to socialize separately.
Multistory limestone houses are everywhere in Hebron, and you will undoubtedly see olives, grapes, figs, jasmine, and roses growing in their backyards. If you count the number of stories on a house, the number will give an idea of how many sons live there.
Needless to say, your time in Hebron will allow you to get to know family and social cultures you may not have been familiar with before!
The youth of Hebron, and generally all of Palestine, is very informed, politically active and well versed in social media. They will never pass up a chance to talk to you and engage with foreigners! Hebron also features many different organizations with young local volunteers who are actively participating in shaping their society. You will have many opportunities to get involved with the city and its locals while you are there.
What Hebron is famous for?
The city’s surrounding landscape is breathtaking, with the white lime-stone buildings towering over the city below. Khalil is famous for quarries, its glass and ceramic manufacturing, its production of olive wood, as well as its shoe industry. It is also close to other cities like Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Ramallah, and Nablus for the occasional weekend away.
Embroidery products in Hebron, Palestine
You will also find beautiful embroidery products carefully crafted by local women. Don’t be afraid to bargain! You can best learn a language through an array of sensory-impressions and interactions with the local residents.
Come and see for yourself – explore Palestine!
