The village is constructed entirely from scratch every year using natural materials like wood, stone, and traditional greenery.
The project is a collaborative effort involving over 150 local volunteers who take on roles such as bakers, shepherds, and Roman soldiers.
The site includes a functioning tavern and a functioning bakery that serves traditional Maltese bread baked in a wood-fired oven.
The village landscape utilizes the natural topography of the Ghajnsielem valley to enhance the realism of the ancient setting.
It is the first attraction of its kind in the Maltese Islands to adopt the 'Bethlehem' concept on such a large scale.
Bethlehem in Ghajnsielem is a sprawling, life-sized, animated nativity village constructed annually on approximately 20,000 square meters of land. It transforms a typical Maltese landscape into a recreation of Judea as it appeared 2,000 years ago, complete with working craftsmen, livestock, and actors. The village operates as a living museum where visitors walk through ancient pathways to observe traditional bread-making, carpentry, and blacksmithing. It features a central grotto that serves as the focal point of the nativity scene, incorporating authentic historical elements. The attraction is built and managed by local community volunteers, requiring months of preparation each year. It is one of the most prominent seasonal cultural events in the Maltese archipelago, drawing thousands of visitors from across the globe.
The raised wooden walkway overlooking the central grotto and the manger scene.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes as the terrain consists of unpaved, uneven paths and natural slopes.
Plan your visit for a weekday evening to avoid the larger crowds that frequent the site during weekends.
Bring a camera with a low-light setting, as the evening illumination provides a distinct atmosphere.
Do not attempt to touch or feed the livestock roaming throughout the village.
Open only during the Christmas season, typically from early December to early January; closed during the remainder of the year.
Maintain a respectful distance from the live actors and livestock; avoid using flash photography near animals.
