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Shepherd's Field Chapel

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Shepherd's Field Chapel (Palestinian Territories)

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Shepherd's Field in Beit Sahour, just east of Bethlehem, is traditionally revered as the site where angels appeared to the shepherds to announce the birth of Jesus. The highlight of the site is the Chapel of the Angels, designed in 1954 by the renowned architect Antonio Barluzzi. Its unique tent-shaped structure is a symbolic nod to the dwellings of local shepherds, while the interior is bathed in natural light from a skylight, mimicking the celestial glow of the angelic visitation. The grounds are scattered with natural limestone caves that have been used for habitation and worship since the Byzantine era, some containing ancient mosaics and altars. Archaeological research has uncovered the remains of a 4th-century monastery and press, indicating the site's long-standing religious importance. Today, the peaceful site serves as a place of pilgrimage and quiet meditation, offering impressive views of the surrounding hills and a direct link to the pastoral roots of the Nativity story.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C101215182225272725221712
Rain mm5942271540102123148

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Shepherd's Field Chapel in Beit Sahour is an active church that can be visited during service times. The grounds around the chapel are freely accessible.
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Typical hours
The chapel typically opens for morning and evening services. On Sundays and holidays, visiting hours are longer but not precisely set.
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Photography
Photography is allowed outdoors, but often not inside the chapel. The surroundings with olive trees provide nice shots.
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Time needed
Allow about 30-45 minutes for visiting the chapel and grounds. A short walk through the Shepherd's Field garden is also recommended.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with the Church of the Nativity in Bethlehem, just a few kilometers away. The Shepherd's Field itself invites you to linger.
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Getting there
Beit Sahour is reachable by car from Bethlehem in about 10 minutes. There is a small parking area near the chapel.
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Insider tip
Respect the quiet during services if you come at that time. An early morning visit features a contemplative atmosphere.

Geography

Coordinates
31.70580, 35.22670

Facts

  • Architect Antonio Barluzzi designed the chapel in 1953
  • The building resembles a Bedouin tent
  • Features three bronze statues of shepherds
  • Consecrated on April 11, 1954
  • Archaeological evidence shows habitation since Bronze Age
  • Located about 2 kilometers east of Bethlehem

Explore nearby

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Jebel Abu GhneimJebel Abu Ghneim2 km · SEExplore →
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Banksy Walled Off HotelBanksy Walled Off Hotel3 km · SExplore →
HerodiumHerodium4 km · NWExplore →
Jebel MukabbirJebel Mukabbir4 km · EExplore →
Wadi el-Arayis Nature AreaWadi el-Arayis Nature Area5 km · NEExplore →
Beit Jala Cremisan WineryBeit Jala Cremisan Winery5 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Shepherd's Field Chapel (5)

Golden Park Resort📍 landmark

A modern leisure facility with green spaces in the Beit Sahour area, near the Shepherds' Field.

PalGPS Company📍 landmark

A distinctive modern building in the hills of Beit Sahour, serving as a local landmark.

Murad Tourism Park🎡 recreation

A large recreational park and museum located near the historic Solomon's Pools.

Shepherds' Field🏺 historical

The biblical site in Beit Sahour where angels announced Jesus' birth to shepherds; it contains ancient caves.

🕒 Mo-Sa 08:00-16:45; Su 08:00-11:30,14:00-16:45

Mosque📍 landmark

This mosque serves as a local place of worship for the Muslim community in the Shepherds' Field area.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How much time should I spend at the Hirtenfelder?
Allow about 1 hour to visit the chapel and the caves.
Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, there is a small fee for entry to the site.
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
Some areas are difficult to access due to uneven pathways.
What is the best time to visit?
Morning is best to avoid crowds.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, photography is permitted in the outdoor areas.
Shepherd's Field Chapel: where is it located?
Shepherd's Field Chapel is located in Palestinian Territories.
Shepherd's Field Chapel: what is there to see?
Highlights include Golden Park Resort, PalGPS Company, Murad Tourism Park.
Shepherd's Field Chapel: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
Shepherd's Field Chapel: why is it worth visiting?
Shepherd's Field in Beit Sahour, just east of Bethlehem, is traditionally revered as the site where angels appeared to the shepherds to announce the birth of Jesus.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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History & landmarks

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The Old City of Hebron is a labyrinth of narrow streets and Mamluk architecture centered around the Ibrahimi Mosque.
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