Jacob Rothschild, Baron Rothschild's father, procured Chateau Lafite with its vineyards and winery near Bordeaux for a sum of 4.4 million francs on August 8, 1868. This purchase, which occurred 25 years before the 25 thousand francs grant to Joseph Feinberg, came about on the advice of Italian composer Rossini. Rossini proposed, "You should acquire this manor. We could find rest there and enjoy its wine." Rossini and Rothschild would pass away within three months of this transaction, with their deaths just one day apart.
The Château Lafite-Rothschild wineries fell into the hands of Jacob's son, Benjamin. Based on advice from the winery manager and using the results of Puhachevsky's studies, it was resolved to cultivate specific grape varieties suited for wine production in Rishon LeZion. These were the years when Grape phylloxera, an insect native to North America, devastated Europe. Rothschild's vintners transported varieties pre-emptively grafted in Kashmir to Rishon LeZion as a countermeasure. Thus, in 1889, the winery's history that you can see across the road began, and Rishon LeZion emerged as the site where a fresh chapter in history was set to unfold.
This journey offers a distinct and unparalleled experience, deviating from the customary city tour by transforming your mobile phone into your guide. As one acclimates to a tour guide's distinctive style, rhythm, and routes, you will also adapt to this unique self-guided experience. Here, you are a participant and the storyteller, navigating and setting your own tempo based on your personal style.
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with this novel approach, and soon you'll find yourself immersed in a narrative rich with the complexities of real people's lives, their moments of joy and despair. As you journey, urban legends rise from the forgotten corners of history, imbuing hope and offering an understanding of where everything started. This isn't just a tour; it's an opportunity to animate the city with your own pace, style, and voice.
Don't be afraid to get lost in new places!
