It was named after the Premonstratensian monastery Bethlehem, an outpost of Mariëngaarde [nl], which was at the location between c. 1170 until 1580.

[2] Bartlehiem is especially well-known due to the Elfstedentocht for ice skaters, who have to pass through the hamlet twice.

On return they turn left to the east over the Aldtsjerkster Feart, a similar ditch.

From here it is approx 10 km to the finish line on the Bonkefeart in Leeuwarden.

Due to this, Bartlehiem is the only place where a spectator can see Elfstedentocht-participants from three directions.