population: 1.3 million

extension: 6.71 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Al-Bireh and interested in museums, the Palestinian Museum is a great place to visit. It's located only about 5 kilometers away from Al-Bireh in Birzeit, and it features exhibitions on Palestinian history, culture, and society. Another museum nearby that may interest you is the Dar Zahran Heritage Building Museum located in Ramallah, which showcases traditional Palestinian architecture, furniture, and textiles.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat in Al-Bireh and the wider Palestinian Territory include:

1. Falafel: Deep-fried balls or patties made from ground chickpeas or fava beans that are usually served in a pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce.

2. Hummus: A dip made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic that is often eaten as part of a mezze platter with pita bread.

3. Musakhan: A traditional Palestinian dish of roasted chicken seasoned with sumac, onions, and other spices, served on top of taboon bread and topped with fried pine nuts and parsley.

4. Maqluba: A one-pot dish made with layers of rice, vegetables (such as eggplant, tomatoes, cauliflower, and potatoes), and either chicken, lamb, or beef.

5. Shawarma: Thinly sliced meat (usually chicken or lamb) that has been marinated in spices and then roasted on a spit, served in a wrap or pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce.

6. Manakish: A type of flatbread topped with za'atar (a mixture of dried herbs, sesame seeds, and salt) and baked in an oven.

These dishes are just a few examples of the many delicious foods that you can find in Al-Bireh and throughout Palestine.

Activities

There are several fun activities that local people enjoy in Al-Bireh and the surrounding areas. One popular activity is hiking in the nearby mountains, such as Mount Gerizim or Mount Ebal. Another popular pastime is visiting local markets, like the Al-Bireh Municipal Market, to shop for fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts. Additionally, you can explore traditional neighborhoods like the Old City of Nablus and the historic center of Ramallah to experience Palestinian culture and cuisine.