THE GREAT SYNAGOGUE SQUARE

Background 

Since its first opening as one of Tel Aviv’s most iconic institutions, the Great Synagogue has served as a vibrant spiritual and cultural center for diverse Jewish worshippers. It welcomes people across the religious and identity spectrum that is so unique to Tel Aviv and is a staple of the city’s spirit of inclusive openness.

The Great Synagogue has cultivated a unique cooperative relationship with the various bars, restaurants, and entertainment establishments that surround it today: though located in one of Tel Aviv’s most thriving nightlife centers, most neighboring businesses voluntarily close before sundown on Fridays out of respect for the Sabbath. This allows prayer attendees and residents to walk peacefully home from the synagogue each week without disruption.

This delicate balance of old and new has allowed the synagogue to serve as a center of culture and spirituality at the heart of an ever-evolving global city.

The need

Despite being enveloped by thriving commerce, the Great Synagogue lacks adjoined public grounds to match its profound civic role. The existing periphery is dominated by a private parking lot and a string of successful bars and eateries that cater primarily to paying customers.

While the neighborhood enjoys immense popularity, seating facilities restrict non-customers. Lack of free public access fails to uphold the founders’ vision for an inclusive square welcoming all residents and visitors alike. And as infrastructure projects intensify ahead of the new light rail station that will be stationed across the square, pedestrian volumes will surge.

The time is right to convert the existing parking lot into an inclusive and welcoming public space. There is a clear need to create a free, green, public space for the growing number of residents and visitors frequenting the square.

The Project

The new urban square will use the former parking lot to integrate seamlessly with the Great Synagogue and the vibrant neighborhood surrounding it. This inclusive green space will accommodate relaxation and social gatherings alongside ongoing religious ceremonies and lively nightlife activities.

The lively green space will promote recreation and lingering by curving accessible paths and plenty of shaded seating options. The square will elevate this already popular square to an inclusive, vibrant, and iconic Tel – Aviv destination.