Bethlehem (West Bank)

City on the west bank of the River Jordan, 8 km/5 mi south of Jerusalem; population (1997 est) 136,400. It was occupied by Israel in 1967 and came under control of the Palestine National Authority in December 1995. In the Bible it is mentioned as the birthplace of King David and Jesus, and in 326 the Church of the Nativity was built over the grotto said to be the birthplace of Jesus. The modern city is an agricultural marketing centre, and has particular importance as a centre for pilgrims and tourists. Its industries are still largely associated with the pilgrim and tourist trade, and include the manufacture of religious articles.