Ramallah is the capital of the Palestinian Territories, although Jerusalem, 16 km to the south, is still claimed as such by the Palestinian Authority. The city's population is estimated at 40,000, rising to 220,000 when the 80 towns and villages (including refugee camps) that make up its suburbs are taken into account. Adjacent to the east, the densely populated town of Al-Bireh (pop. 46,000) is often associated with Ramallah, while Beitunia (pop. 27,000), which extends to the west, is another large town adjoining the capital. The region is administered by the Ramallah & Al-Bireh Governorate, one of the 16 governorates of the Palestinian Authority. 10 km north of the city center, the Birzeit (Bir Zayt) University, founded in 1924, is one of the major university centers in the Palestinian Territories. It houses archives and a museum which can be visited. The village of Bir Zayt itself is predominantly Christian. The university is located to the south of the village, on the road to Ramallah.The stronghold of Fatah, Ramallah is home to the Muqata'a, the headquarters of the Palestinian Authority, the tomb of Yasser Arafat and the museum in his honor, as well as several major government departments and all ministries. Numerous NGOs and expatriates have made the city their home, and several countries have diplomatic representations here (Canada, Germany, Poland, Chile, Australia, China...). France is present through a Franco-German cultural center.Despite the latent tension that is sometimes perceptible, Ramallah has a certain joie de vivre not found in other Palestinian cities. There are many cafés and shops. Tourist activity is concentrated around Al-Manarah Square, or Lions' Square, and the Old City, in the triangle formed by Al'Ra'eesy (The Main) Street, Issa Ziadeh Street and Jaffa Street. The Al-Kasaba Theater and Cinematheque is the city's main cultural venue. Ramallah enjoys a mild climate in summer (it lies 900 m above sea level) and is often cooler than Jerusalem.

What to visit Ramallah?

Weather at the moment

Loading...
Organize your trip with our partners Ramallah
Transportation
Accommodation & stays
Services / On site

Find unique Stay Offers with our Partners

Pictures and images Ramallah

Vue haute de la ville de Ramallah. Antoine RICHARD
Send a reply