Described as the most "westernized" city in the West Bank, Ramallah is a charming juxtaposition of that old Middle Eastern charm and the liveliness of modern life.
The city's name, Ramallah, is composed of two languages: 'Ram' is the Aramaic word for 'high mountain' while 'Allah' is the Arabic word for God. The name translates as 'The Hill of God.' Founded in the 16th century by a group of Christian brothers, The Haddadin, Ramallah grew from a small agricultural village into what it is today—a vibrant city replete with cafes, banks, hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls.
Currently, Ramallah serves as the de facto capital of the State of Palestine. As such, it has garnered all the political and administrative power which has dramatically influenced the development and growth of the city. Ramallah today is the most prominent financial center and a cultural powerhouse blending tradition with modernity. Nowhere can be seen modern skyscrapers, parks, and residential blocks burgeoning alongside charming old homes and quaint promenades, which render the city an attractive place for visitors from all over Palestine and abroad.
Because of its strategic location, mild weather, and lovely nature coupled with quaint hospitality, Ramallah is an irresistible travel destination for many. It has often been referred to as "The Bride of Palestine." And why not? After all, it is just as charming!
Ramallah is located 10 km north of Jerusalem. It is about 60 km from the Allenby Bridge, 43 km from Ben Gurion Airport, and 173 km from the Sheikh Hussein Bridge.
Top Tourist Attractions
- Mahmoud Darwish Museum. Built to house the remains of Palestine's foremost literary figure and Poet Laureate, Mahmoud Darwish, al-Birwa Park, or Mahmoud Darwish Museum, is an epic memorial consecrated to honor him and keep his immense body of work alive for all visitors to admire.
- The Yaser Arafat Mausoleum. Highly revered by his people, Yasser Arafat was laid to rest in a sumptuous white marble crypt erected next to the Mukataa, the seat of government of the Palestinian Authority.
- The Old City of Ramallah. It is a compelling sight with its Ottoman-era buildings. The Old City holds ruins of the ancient watchtower and the Ottoman court. This area of the city will give you an authentic taste of Palestinian culture.
- Prophet Samuel's Tomb. This little village holds great importance to Jews, Christians, and Muslims. It is built around what many consider the traditional burial site of Prophet Samuel. The tomb itself is located inside a dark cellar within a mosque built upon the ruins of an early Byzantine monastery. The mosque is perched upon a high hill overlooking Jerusalem, offering visitors a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding Judaean Hills, and far beyond, the Jordan Valley.
- Al-Bireh. Often referred to as Ramallah's twin sister, Al Bireh compensates for Ramallah's elegant crowdedness by being a primarily residential suburb, host to many cafes, restaurants, and shops, none rivaling the posh and dazzling establishments of its vivacious twin sister.
- Ein Kenya. For lovers of nature and the outdoors, this stunning nature reserve just west of Ramallah has various natural springs and unique flora and fauna. Ein Kenya is considered a perfect place for picnics and hiking.
- Birzeit. Every major city has its college town nearby, and this is Palestine's most famous. With Birzeit University on its outskirts, the city that gave its name to Palestine's oldest and most prestigious university is itself host to more than 200 historic buildings. Journey to its well-preserved old town and a glimpse at the real essence of traditional Palestinian lifestyle.
- The Palestinian Museum. Represent the history and aspirations of the Palestinian people; the museum aims to discuss the past, present, and future of Palestine.
- Taybeh. Meaning the 'Goodly,' this quaint little town lives up to its name for the hospitality of its people and the dazzling views of the Judaean Desert, the Jordan Valley, Jericho, and the Dead Sea. Taybeh nowadays is home to Palestine's only brewery, The Taybeh Brewing Company. The plant introduces visitors to sampling tours of its exquisite hand-crafted micro-brewed beers, as well as its fine selection of locally brewed liquors, spirits, and wines. Keeping up with a world trend, the town hosts its picturesque version of Oktoberfest during a two-day festival held in October.
- Jina. This small charming village is surrounded by countless groves of fig, olive, and apricot trees. With its quiet demeanor and mild climate, Jifna is a popular summer destination where visitors enjoy various outdoor restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. It also hosts its annual two-day Apricot Festival held in the first week of May.
- Aboud. An ancient picturesque village, Aboud is where you can climb hills covered in millennial olive trees, with luxuriant fig trees providing a shade to its streets.