A giant Christmas tree has been lit up in the Palestinian city of Bethlehem, which the Bible says is the birthplace of Jesus Christ.

The Christmas tree lighting ceremony took place on Saturday. It was held in front of the Church of the Nativity. The house of worship stands on the grotto, where Jesus is believed to have been born.

The event used to attract many visitors every year. But the coronavirus pandemic prompted authorities to impose a travel ban, and that kept foreign tourists away for two years.

Israel lifted the travel ban this year, so tourists can now enjoy the Christmas festivities in Bethlehem again.

A visitor from Denmark said that she came to experience Christmas in the Palestinian city. She added that she is praying for peace, as there are many crises raging on earth.