ARTAS AND THE LETTUCE FESTIVAL
Set in the verdant Artas valley, a meeting place for civilizations for millennia,
and heir to a fascinating history, heritage, and folklore, the small but magical
village of Artas is only walking distance from Bethlehem even though it has kept
the atmosphere of the countryside. In April 2006, it celebrated its natural and
cultural heritage at the Twelfth Annual Artas Lettuce Festival. Festivals are an
important part of Palestinian life, bringing together different segments of the
population, now facing increasing fragmentation, due to military barriers and checkpoints.

Opposite the village, the Hortus Conclusus (Closed Garden) church and monastery
tends a rich garden cultivated by the peasants of Artas. Palestinian villages are
often well-known for the special quality of a particular crop. Artas is justly proud
of its delicious crisp romaine lettuce.