The Birzeit Area
This sleepy village is a short taxi ride through the stunning hills surrounding Ramallah. It has a number of good cafes, particularly good is Abu Wad'ia which is near the old university campus entrance. It serves an Arabic-Euro mix of food in an indoor and garden setting. Birzeit also has two out door swimming pools, with women's hours. To get here take a Birzeit service from Shar'a al-Irsaal.
Those of you that got here by way of the University's site should know all about it, but for those of you that just stumbled upon this site:
Standing on a hill on the way to Birzeit village is Birzeit University's new campus. First established as a school in the 1920s it acquired university status in the 1970s, becoming the first Palestinian university. Its history is one of struggle to provide university education in the midst of Israeli occupation and harassment. Subjected to closure by the army 15 times, the longest at the beginning of the Intifada when it was shut for a period of 51 months.
Birzeit presently consists of four faculties, Arts, Commerce and Economics, Science and Engineering as well as a number of research centres. The University offers courses for international students in Arabic and Middle East related social sciences through a summer course and two three-month semesters. The Department of Student Affairs also organises a two-week long work camp each Summer.
For a campus tour telephone the Public Relations Office on 02 995 2059.
A pleasant 30 minute walk from Birzeit village, on the ancient road between Jerusalem and the north, is Jifna, the ancient Gophna of Josephus. This village is now known for its chicken restaurants, relaxing atmosphere and traditional village architecture. Try Tabash restaurant, or any other nearby.
In response to the lack of recreation opportunities for children during the Intifada and the Gulf War, the Palestinian Village Club was established in 1991. Set amongst the remains of a Roman castle, its aims include the preservation of the traditional Palestinian building style and Palestine's historical buildings and folklore. Over the centuries the people of Jifna have built their homes on and around this Roman castle, however much of it can still be seen. The club members have undertaken the renovation of parts of the castle along with a number of other nearby sites. They have also established a computer training classroom and a gym, and have plans to construct a meeting hall and a local heritage museum. The club also sponsors and organises festivals and special occasions with the aim of social, cultural and educational exchange. For a visit to the club, castle or Jifna, telephone Tareq Salameb on tel. 02 995 7177.