The course commenced in Grand Park Hotel with a welcoming speech by Mr. Samir Bahbah; the director of the ATGU in which he thanked everyone who has contributed in making the course a success. He also shed the light on the importance of such a course in developing and enriching the knowledge of the tour guides in several locations.
H.E. Rula Ma'aia also ensured the importance of such diverse locations, for what Palestine has of monuments and ancient historical treasures. She praised the roles and efforts of all the parties especially the Centre for Cultural Heritage Preservation who does not hesitate and always make an effort to preserve the Palestinian Cultural Heritage.
Afterwards, the participants made a site visit through Star Street accompanied by the historian Khalil Shokeh whom has given them an introduction about the heritage and the history of Bethlehem city especially the World Heritage site; Star Street and the significant events that have happened in it. Arch. Issam Juha; the director of CCHP pointed out to the most important and significant historical and architectural buildings along Star Street, in which it deserves the attention. The historian Khalil Shokeh continued his speech about the history and culture of Bethlehem especially in the 19th century and the evolution of the Old City, in the Peace Centre hall.
Moreover, Arch. Nada Atrash; the head of the Research and Training Unit in CCHP, presented a PowerPoint about the cultural heritage in Bethlehem and its importance to the region. She also talked about the types and architectural evolution especially in Star Street - World Heritage Site.
The course came to an end by a presentation given by Mr. Ahmad Juneid Sorosch Wali; the head of Culture Unit at UNESCO-Ramallah. Mr Wali presented some of the most important Cultural Heritage sites in the world. He has also pointed out to the importance of the historical and cultural sites in Palestine and in particular in Bethlehem and Battir after enlisting them in the World Heritage Sites for its cultural and natural heritage's individuality. The participants expressed their joy and the knowledge that they have gained by participating in such course and thanked everyone who has contributed in such a successful work.
