White City Walking Tours

February 4, 2013 at 12:16 pm · Filed under Uncategorized

White City Walking Tours

Tel Aviv’s ‘White City’ features the largest group of Bauhaus style buildings in the world in an area located between Allenby Street in the south of the city and the Yarkon River to the north. The White City buildings were designed by Jewish architects from the 1920s onwards, who created a new style of architecture termed the ‘International style’ – a form which is recognized by its asymmetry, functionality, flat roofs and ‘thermometer’ windows.

Take the White Tour

There’s no better way to see Tel Aviv’s oldest neighborhood than on foot, and a walking tour of this UNESCO designated area will take in all the important architectural highlights. The White Route is one of three new ‘color coded’ walking routes designed to help visitors get acquainted with the city’s notable places of interest –instigated as  part of Tel Aviv’s 100 year celebrations.

Highlights of the Walking Tour

The tour begins at the border of Neve Zedek, where visitors can view a fascinating fountain mosaic portraying the history of Jaffa and Tel Aviv. Rothschild Boulevard which was named after Baron Edmond de Rothschild is home to many of the best examples of the city’s Bauhaus buildings and where walkers can view Dizengoff House, Golomb House and Lederberg House.  Levin House which was constructed in 1924 by Yehuda Magidovich is also known as the Castle, the impressive building featuring a turret and mechanically operated roof. The building housed the Soviet Union Embassy during the 1950s and in the 1990s it was fully restored to its former grandeur.

Engel House is one of the best known residential buildings in White City, and another classic symbol of the International style of architecture. Constructed in 1933 by architect Ze’ev Rechter it was the first house to feature pillars. It also has the long balconies, ribbon windows and white plaster typical of Bauhaus style buildings. Berlin House, built in 1929, and Milner House are further highlights to take in on the tour.

Bauhaus Buildings Converted to Boutique Hotels

During their walk visitors will note that several Bauhaus style buildings have been converted into popular boutique hotels – where guests can enjoy a unique traditional ambience – and excellent location right in the heart of the city.

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