Page 31 - Holyland Magazine - 2015 edition
P. 31
A refurbished Templar
its visitors’ center tells the story of its turbulent history and building in Sarona.
its important place as a national heritage site. Photo: Rami Zeringer

Restoration
Sarona embodies the pinnacle of urban renovation
and restoration, both in Israel and Tel Aviv. After many
years behind barbed-wire (due to its governmental and
military designation), Sarona is inally showing of its
charm. The immense cultural and historic values of the
colony are recognized while each and every detail has
been evaluated, cataloged and handled by the best
craftspeople available. Special detail was given to the
architecture and environment in order to maintain the
utmost historic accuracy.
The complex engineering operation combined modern
technology and a thorough knowledge of the past, artistic
sensibilities and signiicant architectural skill. One of the
biggest challenges involved moving complete historical
buildings after it was decided to expand Kaplan Street.
This ambitious project required concrete trays to be placed
beneath each structure, which were then lifted onto ski-like
structures so they could be moved and kept intact.

Sarona Today
Sarona combines a unique architectural history with
a dynamic urban experience. Together they create a
center of shopping, leisure and a relaxed and upscale
atmosphere. The renewed colony includes an urban
park and the accurately restored original 33 buildings of
the Templar settlement. These have been transformed
into elegant cafes, ritzy restaurants, art galleries, an
assortment of specialty shops and a home to famous and
unique fashion houses and boutiques.
If you close your eyes, you can easily be transported back
to a time of elegance and fantastic stories. Sarona is a A ine example of Templar
place where yesterday, today and tomorrow converge architecture. Photo: Rami
and create an intangible magic. Zeringer

A few steps away from the bustle of the city is an oasis
of relaxation that hasn’t been seen since the days of the
Templars themselves.
Above all, Sarona ofers its visitors freedom and options.
Its vast open spaces make it an island of green in the heart
of the city, providing a wealth of leisure options. For those
interested in history, the visitor center ofers exhibitions
that reveal the little and not-so-little stories that make up
the riveting history that is known as Sarona.
For those seeking a colorful and vibrant urban experience,
they are sure to ind a wealth of options such as the
farmer’s market, street shows, book fairs and current
cultural events that the Sarona team are constantly
developing for the public’s pleasure.

Sarona is a respite for those wanting to escape the
city’s concrete jungle. In contrast, it ofers lush green
botanical gardens that replicate the agricultural nature
of the original Templar settlement and provides peace,
quiet and inspiration.
As the sun sets, the space is transformed into an elegant
destination for city revelers looking to let of steam after
a hard day’s work. Here, you will ind the city’s top
restaurants, smart bars or retail options to satisfy your
shopping cravings.

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