Bethlehem olive wood traditional craft began in Bethlehem In the fourth century following the Picture of Bethlehem Artists in 1896 construction of the Nativity Church, The Church was built on the traditional birth place of Jesus. At that time Monks taught local resident how to carve olive wood and later was taught from generation to generation.
The olive wood craftmen of Bethlehem have suffered dramatically since the current crisis began in the fall of 2000. The overall income of the families has dropped by 90%.The livelihood and economy of the Holy Land crafters are dependent on the sale of the works they produce most of the artists have closed their workshops and some have sold their tools, knowing they may never carve again. Many of them have left Bethlehem to other countries in the search of their daily bread. Thus threatening the ancient Biblical heritage wood craft and the Christians presence in the Holy Land.
Although this industry depends on simple hand tools, it is maintained as such to preserve the Biblical heritage and the religious significance of the Olive Tree to the Christian community world wide..." The craftsmen need encouragement in order to keep carving and to teach their children the extraordinary skills needed to carve olivewood. Thus continuing the ancient Biblical tradition of beautiful olive wood carvings in the Holy Land.
All our carvings are hand carved from Authentic Bethlehem Holy Land Olive Wood. Environment friendly, made from the trimmings of the olive trees, an essential process which allows a new and healthier growth for the trees. No Tree was damaged or destroyed in the process of harvesting the wood.