Corpus of Electronic Texts Edition
Adamnan's De Locis Sanctis (Author: Adamnan of Iona)

Chapter/toc 1

BOOK THE SECOND BEGINS

CONCERNING THE SITE OF BETHLEM

In the beginning of this our second book some few things should be set down briefly concerning the site of the city of Bethlem, in which our
5] Saviour deigned to be born of a holy virgin. Now this city, according to the account of Arculf, who frequented it, is not so notable by reason of its site, as it is celebrated by report spread throughout the churches of all nations. It is situated on a narrow ridge, which is surrounded by valleys on every side, and from west to east this ridge of earth stretches
10] for about a mile. On the level plateau on top a low wall without towers has been constructed right round the very edge of the hill. It overlooks the little valleys which lie here and there round about, and the houses of the citizens are scattered in a lengthwise direction within its circuit.