The seventh edition of Bethlehem in Għajnsielem has been inaugurated.

The event sees around 20 tumoli of land in Ghajnsielem transformed into a living village complete with painted wooden structures, pathways, gates and rubble walls.

Photo: George Scerri, Gozo Ministry

The structures house the nativity scene and several animals and craftsmen, including a baker, a carpenter and a blacksmith. More than 150 actors take part.

A new attraction this year is a rope bridge longer than 30 metres enabling one to cross the river created last year.

This year's edition will again offer one the opportunity to spent a night at the 'Bethlehem Inn', a two-storey ‘hotel’ with three rooms for rent.

The inn is situated on top of the carpenter's shop, which is also being rented out.

Bethlehem in Ghajnsielem will be animated on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.