Christmas preparations in the city of Bethlehem

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Source: CCTV.com | 12-22-2008 08:48

Security has been stepped up in Bethlehem for the usual surge of tourists expected ahead of Christmas.

Nuns take part in a mass in the Church of Nativity in the  West Bank city of Bethlehem, December 21, 2008. The church  is built over the grotto where Christians believe the Virgin  Mary gave birth to Jesus.REUTERS/Nayef Hashlamoun (WEST BANK)

Some tourists have been scared off by renewed conflicts between Israeli forces and Palestinian militants. But despite all this, Bethlehem has again become a magnet for pilgrims.

Thousands of tourists are expected to arrive in Bethlehem and around the West Bank in the days ahead. Hotels are booked solid through January and the Central Manger Square is already bustling with visitors. About 15 hundred Palestinian police officers will be deployed in Bethlehem during this holiday season.

Editor:Du Xiaodan