Bethlehem - Qandeel Dar Botto Guest house

Qandeel is an integration between the past and present, the place that combines the scent of heritage and the cultural exchange between its visitors. It takes the tourist to a different level of understanding of the Bethlehemite cultural identity. As Qandeel Dar Botto is concerned in exposing a different type of hospitality in Bethlehem.

Qandeel Dar Botto delights its visitors with a great learning experience of fascinating historical origins and a truly joyful vacation. The guest in Qandeel Dar Botto is not an anonymous guest, but is a member of the Qandeel Dar Botto Family. 

Another specialty of Qandeel Dar Botto delightful services is a Bethlehemite Culinary experience. Food is an expression of identity and represents part of the living heritage of a culture and a nation. Most travelers consider gastronomy an important factor in their choice of destination, both as a pleasurable experience and as an entryway to understanding a new culture, and quite a few organize their trips around a gastronomic adventure. 

We offer our guests the opportunity to enjoy a full experience that includes exploring local markets and food shops, sharing the kitchen of a local family, and preparing with them the evening meal, to enjoy together around a glass of local wine. Through this experience, you will discover Palestinian ingredients, and Palestinian cooking methods and learn firsthand about Palestinian lifestyle and hospitality. 

The Rehabilitation of Qandeel Dar Botto, owned by Botto family, revealed the history of a family and a place. During the renovation works, an old lantern (Qandeel) was found under the rubbles. It is believed that the Botto family used the Qandeel in the old days to light up the stairs for passerby, as the house is located at the crossroads of a bustling street on top of a hill. To keep the memory of Qandeel and the identity of Botto family alive. We named the house Qandeel Dar Botto.

Our rendez-vous is at Qandeel Dar Botto, located on Star Street, the Route of the Patriarchs in the historic core of Bethlehem, which was added to the UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites. You will be in the heart of the Ottoman city and a stone throw away from the traditional Market Place and Manger Square and the Church of the Nativity. 

1. Mission: Our mission is to confirm Bethlehem’s hospitality and culinary identity and provide guests with a memorable and enriching experience in Palestinian gastronomy.
2. Vision: Promote Bethlehem’s cultural hospitality and culinary scene as an expression of Palestine’s diverse cultural landscape and a reflection of the practices, lifestyles, and narratives transmitted through the generations.

Objectives:

1. To promote Bethlehem’s hospitality and culinary scene as an expression of Palestinian culture.
2. To engage visitors in the enlightenment process of Bethlehem’s cultural heritage, and a memorable experience that includes purchasing local produce and ingredients, learning about food preparation, and sharing a collective meal at a Palestinian table.
3. To increase the cultural offer and contribute to the development of cultural tourism in Bethlehem and Palestine.

Core Values:

1. We are certain of the uniqueness of Bethlehem’s hospitality, cultural heritage, and traditions.
2. We have a passion for food and cooking.
3. We believe in promoting traditional recipes and using local produce. 
4. We are dedicated to increasing the level of local employment and contributing to the overall process of development.
5. We believe that sharing local know-how and local food stories enhances the tourism experience.
6. We are committed to providing quality services and excellence.