Rishon Lezion is one of the largest cities in Israel and is conveniently situated within easy reach of both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is a lovely way to spend a day sightseeing. Located on the central coastal strip just south of Tel Aviv, it is regarded as part of the metropolitan area of the Gush Dan region.
The name Rishon Lezion means first of Zion and is often referred to in the short form “Rishon” by the locals, which is appropriate as it is a city of many firsts. Rishon Lezion was one of the first settlements in Israel founded in 1882 along with Petah Tikva and is considered the first actual Zionist settlement. The Flag of the State of Israel has its origins in Rishon Lezion, and the National Anthem Hatikva was written and first sung by schoolchildren there. The song became popular worldwide as a symbol of Jewish identity and yearning for many years until it was formally adopted as the National Anthem.
Rishon Lezion had the first Hebrew School in the country Beit Sefer Haviv which opened in 1889. The father of Modern Hebrew, Eliezer Ben-Yehuda, was a teacher there amongst other respected educationists.
Originally the area was very barren and without any signs of water availability. Nevertheless, a group of Eastern European families who had escaped the terrible pogroms that were being wrought against the Jewish Communities there and were a part of the First Aliya (initial group of new immigrants to Palestine) purchased 850 acres of land with the belief that their dreams of settling the land of Israel would be satisfied. However, they knew that they would not be able to realize their dreams of establishing a livelihood from agriculture without water. Hence, one of the group founders traveled to France to meet with Baron de Rothschild and ask for financial assistance to build a well. Visitors can visit this original well and water tower today in the center of the City of Rishon Lezion.
There are many other places of historical interest in Rishon Lezion, including the old village bell, the Old Synagogue, the Museum from where you can follow the route of the outdoor museum and into the Park with its regal “Avenue of Palms,” which has been the site of receptions for several dignitaries including Theodor Herzl, Winston Churchill, and Lord Balfour.
The old Carmel Mizrahi Winery building is well worth a visit to view its museum and cellars and take a tour to learn about the history of wine in the area. Not to be forgotten is Rishon Lezion’s beautiful beach area with its golden sands, warm waters, and excellent surf.