Bethlehem

Bethlehem is a city in eastern Pennsylvania that sits along the Lehigh River and spans both Northampton County and Lehigh County. The community rests at an elevation of roughly 109 meters (358 feet) and operates as a self-governed municipality with its own administrative framework.

Moravian settlers from Europe founded the community in 1741 and established a religious settlement in the wilderness. Over the 19th and 20th centuries the city grew into a major steel production hub until the large mills closed in 1995.

The city carries its biblical name since European settlers arrived on Christmas Eve and wanted to honor the birthplace of Jesus. Today visitors walk through the old downtown area where 18th-century stone buildings still stand and serve everyday purposes, showing how the early community lived and worked.

The municipality maintains public offices for permits, taxes, and building matters that can help visitors with orientation questions. The downtown area is walkable, and many former industrial sites are now open to the public.

In the 1930s the community adopted the nickname Christmas City USA after becoming the first place in America to display a decorated Christmas tree publicly. Today a large star still shines on South Mountain during the holiday season and can be seen from far away.

Location: Northampton County

Location: Lehigh County

Inception: 1741

Elevation above the sea: 109 m

Part of: Moravian Church Settlements

Shares border with: Hanover Township

Website: https://bethlehem-pa.gov

GPS coordinates: 40.62611,-75.37556

Latest update: December 12, 2025 20:23