Olive wood carving
 

Carving wooden souvenirs with religious themes is a famous traditional handicraft in Palestine, particularly in the Bethlehem area. This trade dates back to the 4th century AD and the skill is handed down from generation to generation, constituting the livelihood for many families in the area. This enterprise became widespread due to the close historical and religious connections with the olive tree which is abundant in Palestine. Many religious institutions in the 9th century helped transform this handicraft into a developed tourism industry. During the British mandate times, this industry in particular was tax exempt.

Olive wood is relatively easy to carve using simple manual tools, and it contains a natural variation in color and texture in addition to its natural resistance to mold and acceptance of paint. Electric machines are used to cut olive wood and sculpt it, however, the small details are still hand-carved. Artifacts produced include many religious miniature sculptures, frames, boxes, pots, etc… Currently, There are 600 stores that sell olive wood souvenirs, 83% of them in Jerusalem and 15% in Bethlehem, while 50% of the factories are in Bethlehem.