Dar al-Kalima University – Arts, Culture, and Culinary Innovation in Bethlehem

Dar al-Kalima University blends arts, culture, and cuisine, offering cooking classes, rooftop dining, and creative programs in Bethlehem.

Overview

Dar al-Kalima University is Palestine’s first institution dedicated to arts, culture, and creativity. Established in 1995 by the Lutheran Church, it has grown into a dynamic center for education in visual arts, film, music, design, and cultural heritage. The university also leads the way in culinary education with a state-of-the-art training kitchen and a rooftop restaurant that combines fine dining with sweeping views of Bethlehem.

Dar al-Kalima is more than an academic campus — it is a cultural hub where education and creativity come together. Visitors encounter a space that reflects Bethlehem’s resilience, offering opportunities to experience Palestinian culture through art, performance, and food.

Cultural and Community Significance

Dar al-Kalima plays a vital role in shaping Palestine’s cultural future. It empowers young people to tell their stories through art, media, and cuisine, linking Palestinian traditions with contemporary innovation. By integrating culinary education with creative arts, the university highlights the role of food as both heritage and expression.

International partnerships make Dar al-Kalima a global meeting point for cultural exchange. For visitors, it provides not only an introduction to Palestinian creativity but also a chance to directly participate — whether through tasting, learning, or engaging with the community.

Highlights & Experiences

Cooking Classes & Culinary Tours: Participate in hands-on cooking sessions led by chefs and students, where traditional Palestinian recipes meet modern techniques.
Rooftop Dining: Enjoy a meal at the university’s rooftop restaurant, sampling dishes prepared with local ingredients while overlooking Bethlehem’s hills.
Art & Film Events: Attend exhibitions, concerts, and film screenings that showcase student and professional talent.
Workshops & Lectures: Join public programs on visual arts, heritage preservation, or cultural studies.

Visitor Information

  • Location: Dar al-Kalima University, Bethlehem, Palestine
  • Opening Hours: Weekdays, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (public events, exhibitions, and classes by schedule)
  • Entrance Fee: Free access to exhibitions; cooking classes and dining experiences require advance booking
  • Contact:
  • Tel: +970 2 274 3270
  • Email: info@daralkalima.edu.ps
  • Website: www.daralkalima.edu.ps
  • Tips: Reserve cooking classes and rooftop dining in advance; check the events calendar for art shows and film screenings.