Happy TravellerWelcome to Holon, a vibrant city located on the central coastal strip of Israel, just south of Tel Aviv. With a population of nearly 200,000, Holon is the tenth most populous city in Israel and is part of the metropolitan Gush Dan area. The name Holon comes from the Hebrew word for ‘(little) sand’, reflecting the city’s origins on sand dunes. In this article, we will explore the rich history, diverse culture, and exciting attractions that make Holon a must-visit destination for any traveler.
History
Holon was founded in 1935 by Jewish immigrants from Poland, who established a thriving textile industry in the city. During the Arab-Israeli War in 1948, Holon was on the front line and saw heavy fighting. After the establishment of the state of Israel, Holon expanded to include neighboring areas and has since evolved into a modern city with a strong focus on family-friendly attractions and urban development.
Attractions and Activities
Holon offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. The city has been rebranded as a child-friendly city and offers many family-oriented attractions, including the Yamit Water Park, the Israeli Children’s Museum, and the Israel Museum of Caricature and Comics. Holon also hosts a variety of springtime events, including the Yemay Zemer (Days of Song) Festival during Passover and a Women’s Festival in March, both at the Holon Theater. Holon is one of the host cities for the Rhythmic Gymnastics Grand Prix Series in March. The city also plays host each year to a street carnival in celebration of the Jewish holiday of Purim, the Adloyada, where thousands of children dress up in costumes and the streets close down for a parade featuring colorful floats. The Design Museum Holon, the first Israeli museum of design, is also a must-visit attraction.
Urban Development
Holon is a city that has undergone significant urban development in recent years. The city has preserved many historic landmarks, including water towers in the Moledet and Azor neighborhoods and a number of buildings used by the Haganah. A new neighborhood, Migdalim Bashdera, is under construction, with plans for 23 upscale residential towers, a new city hall, several cultural and commercial centers, some of them already built. A French urban planner was commissioned to design a north-south boulevard with pedestrian walks, bicycle paths, sports fields, parks, and waterfalls. The last undeveloped land reserve remaining in Holon is the H-500 Holon plan, that consists of approximately 4,080 dunams in the south of the city and is intended to consist of 13,700 dwelling units in total.
Culture
Holon is a city that takes pride in its vibrant cultural scene. It is home to the Holon Children’s Museum and the Mediatheque youth theater, which hosts a range of performances and events throughout the year. The Israeli Museum of Caricature and Comics and the Israeli Center for Digital Art are also located in Holon. The city also has a thriving theater and dance scene, with the Holon Theater presenting shows and plays and organizing festivals every year, including the Woman Festival, the Days of Music Festival, and the Storytelling Festival. Holon is also home to the Hora Reim dance group, which represents the city in shows, events, and festivals in Israel and around the world.
Samaritan Community
Holon is one of only two cities in the world to have a Samaritan community, the other being the village of Kiryat Luza on Mount Gerizim above Nablus on the West Bank. The Samaritan quarter in Holon was established in 1954, with the help of the president of Israel, Yitzhak Ben-Zvi. The quarter was named Neve Pinchas after Pinhas Ben-Abraham, the high priest of the Samaritan community.
Education
Holon is home to the Holon Institute of Technology, which was founded in 1969. The city also has a number of schools and colleges, including the Collège-Lycée franco-israélien Raymond Leven, which is located in Mikve, Holon.
Sports
Holon is home to the Hapoel Holon basketball club, which has won multiple national championships and state cups. The city also has a football team, Hapoel Tzafririm Holon F.C.
Twin Towns – Sister Cities
Holon is twinned with a number of cities around the world, including Aalborg in Denmark, Piatra Neamț in Romania, and Norrköping in Sweden.
In conclusion, Holon is a city that offers visitors a rich blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s past, enjoying its many family-friendly activities, or immersing yourself in its vibrant cultural scene, Holon has something for everyone. So why not add Holon to your travel itinerary today and discover all that this dynamic city has to offer?
