A display device and a method of manufacturing the display device that is capable of easily bending the display device, simplifying manufacturing processes, and reducing manufacturing costs are provided. The display device includes a substrate including a bending area; a display element disposed on an upper surface of the substrate; and a protective layer disposed on a lower surface of the substrate. A portion of the protective layer that is disposed in the bending area has a material stiffness lower than a material stiffness of another portion of the protective layer.