GEMMA BELL AND COMPANY | NEWS | LAUNCH OF KASSA HOTEL

Located in the heart of Bethlehem, on the UNESCO World Heritage site of Star Street, the exclusive Kassa boutique hotel has opened its doors to the public.

A passion project from long-time friends, Franco-Palestinian chef Fadi Kattan and Chilean-Palestinian entrepreneur Elizabeth Kassis Sabagh, Kassa will be the first of its kind in the old city. Offering guests luxury accommodation and modern furnishings whilst preserving the Kassis family roots, traditional Palestinian architecture and rich cultural heritage.

The Hotel

Situated in an area of historical significance to Bethlehem, Kassa is a short walk from the Church of the Nativity on Manger Square in the centre of the town. Starting the thoughtful and rigorous restoration of the property in 2016, almost 80 years after her father’s migration to Chile, Elizabeth’s mission was to transform the property into a welcoming yet sophisticated six-room hotel.

The property’s reimagination is based on the traditional architecture of the city and its connection to Chile, with stained glass windows, stone flooring and arched ceilings defining the space. Neutral colour schemes, carefully selected artworks and minimalist furniture adorn every part of the hotel. Communal spaces, including the lobby and ground-floor outdoor patio, provide the perfect meeting place and encourage social interaction and a sense of community amongst guests and locals. A rooftop bar and terrace with 360-degree views of the old city and key landmarks will open at the hotel later this year.

The Rooms

The six bedrooms offer a variety of sizes and styles including two deluxe doubles, one large suite with a kitchen and one without (the two suites are interconnecting if necessary), and two large suites with a shared kitchen. Each room features high-quality furniture and bespoke textiles sourced from across Chile and Palestine, including handmade woven wall hangings, cushions and local Palestinian artwork selected by Elly.

All rooms include a spacious and modern en-suite bathroom with separate toilets, a sink and walk-in shower, with a large bath in one suite. Elements of luxury are always within reach, spotlighting trusted local suppliers with products such as olive oil natural soaps from the Nablus Soap Company.

The Food and Drink

Breakfast takes place in the hotel courtyard and honours traditional Palestinian produce and local artisans, including Salesian Bakery and Afteem. Start with a selection of small plates including olives, labaneh, nabulsi cheese, hummus, home-made jams and breads, followed by fried or boiled eggs with sumac. Fresh juices, Arabic coffee and teas are served alongside the food.

A concise drinks menu is available in the lobby and external courtyard, including wines from Ashkar Winery. Founded by Nemi Ashkar, the winery in Kufur Yasif is a continuation of family legacy and represents the resilience of Palestinian people and the fertility of the land. The hotel also champions craft beer from Taybeh, the first microbrewery of the Middle East and arak from the exceptional small batch Muaddi Craft Distillery.

On the opening of Kassa, Fadi notes: “With Kassa, we reconnect Bethlehem’s history with our diaspora through a space of beauty and hospitality where we celebrate the crafts and tastes of Palestine.”

For Elly “Kassa is a dream I dreamt in 2019 in Bethlehem, which my family made possible and today I am excited to open our doors to travellers coming to stay in Bethlehem. We have brought the best of Palestine and Chile together to honour both traditions in the first luxurious boutique hotel of Bethlehem.”

A team of young Bethlehemite’s will be guests first port of call during your sejourn in Bethlehem. Room rates are between 250 USD and 380 USD per night.

For more information, please contact Alicia on alicia@gemmabellandcompany.com.

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