Baituna al-Talhami Museum facts for kids
The Baituna al-Talhami Museum (Arabic: متحف بيتنا التلحمي) is also known as the Bethlehem Folklore Museum. It is located in Bethlehem, Palestine, on Star Street. This museum lets you step back in time. Its rooms look just like a traditional Palestinian home from the 1800s.
Inside, you can see old pictures, traditional clothing, and beautiful jewelry. You can also find the tools people used to make these items. It's a great way to learn about Palestinian culture and history.
History of the Museum
The museum has an interesting history. It started in 1948, set up by the Arab Women's Union (AWU). A woman named Julia Dabdoub led this effort. At first, it was a place where Palestinian refugees could get food. They also learned traditional embroidery to earn money.
The AWU officially opened the museum in 1979. It is made of two old Palestinian houses. These houses show typical Palestinian architecture. They include a kitchen, a diwan (a reception room), a bedroom, and an upper floor called illeyeh.
Growing the Collection
The museum's collection grew over time. Many families in Bethlehem donated their old belongings. This helped save many traditional items from being lost or damaged. These donations made the museum even richer in history.
In 1984, the museum got bigger. An old house next door was restored and added to the museum. Julia Dabdoub said this new house was very special. She mentioned it was one of the few real old houses left in Bethlehem.
In 1992, Julia Dabdoub gave her own collection to the museum. This included photos, furniture, and art she had collected for 40 years. These items helped furnish the upper room, "al-Illiyeh." They show what life was like for people in Bethlehem between 1900 and 1932.
More Than Just a Museum
Even though Baituna al-Talhami is a museum, it still helps people. It provides jobs for refugees. The museum also hosts special events. These events celebrate Palestinian artists, poets, and writers. It's a place that keeps culture alive and supports the community.
See also
- List of museums in Palestine
- Al-Badd Museum for Olive Oil Production
