Barcelona, January 18 – Bethlehem Treasures, a venerable Palestinian shop renowned for its handcrafted Christmas figures, has ceased operations in Barcelona. The store, which opened just three months ago on Escudellers Street in the Gòtic neighborhood, cited prohibitively high rental costs as the reason for its definitive closure. This news comes as a blow to both its owner and the more than two dozen artisans from Bethlehem who collaborated with the establishment.
High Rent Forces Closure of Centenary Business
Anton Mickel, owner of Bethlehem Treasures, expressed his dismay to Time Out Barcelona, stating, “The rent for the premises does not align with either the location or the salaries in the city, as is the case with almost all rental spaces in Barcelona.” Mickel further emphasized the lack of viable alternatives, noting, “They have not given us any alternative to avoid the closure.”
The decision to close marks an unfortunate end for a business with a rich history spanning 150 years. Mickel had relocated the shop from Bethlehem to Barcelona last October, driven by the desire to “give it continuity” and “bring something different to the city, a new artisan product,” especially in light of the ongoing conflict in Palestine.
A Collaborative Effort with Bethlehem Artisans
Bethlehem Treasures was not merely a single-person operation; it served as a vital platform for over twenty artisans from Bethlehem. These skilled craftspeople produced a variety of figures and other items that were sold at the Barcelona store, making the closure a significant loss for their livelihoods as well.
According to Mickel, speaking to Tot Barcelona, the news has been disheartening not only for his clientele but also for himself. He had ambitious plans to expand the product line to include caganers crafted from olive wood, a project that now remains unrealized.
Impact on Barcelona’s Artisan Scene and Future Plans
The closure of Bethlehem Treasures highlights a recurring challenge for small businesses and artisan shops in Barcelona, where escalating rental prices often make it difficult to sustain operations. This situation raises concerns about the preservation of unique cultural and artisanal offerings within the city’s commercial landscape.
While the immediate impact is the loss of a unique Christmas figure shop, it also underscores the broader economic pressures faced by independent retailers. The incident may prompt further discussion among local authorities and business associations regarding support mechanisms for such enterprises to thrive in the city.
Community and Economic Implications
The shop’s brief presence in Barcelona had begun to establish a connection with the local community, offering a distinct cultural product. The abrupt departure due to economic factors serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between urban development and the sustenance of diverse commercial ventures.
The closure of Bethlehem Treasures, a business that aimed to bridge cultures and provide a marketplace for traditional craftsmanship, leaves a void in Barcelona’s retail offerings, particularly for those seeking unique, handcrafted goods with a rich history.
