Olive wood carving in Palestine

The tradition of making the handicrafts began in the 4th century CE under Byzantine rule in Bethlehem — which continues to be the main city that produces the craft — following the construction of the Church of the Nativity.

[3] Olive wood is carved into crosses, boxes, picture frames, covers for historical and old books, candle holders, rosaries, urns, vases and Christmas ornaments as well as scenes of the Holy Family.

[3] The process of producing an olive wood craft requires labor intensity and consists of many stages, often involving the work of multiple artisans.

Finally, the finished item must be sanded down and polished, then coated with olive wax to give the object a "natural shine" and ensure its longevity.

[3] The 2023 Israel-Hamas war significantly impacted Bethlehem's olive wood carving industry, which has long been a cornerstone of the city's economy and cultural identity.