Florintin's largest and most central square boasts a charm that genuinely encapsulates the spirit of this picturesque neighbourhood. You'll find a renowned cafe in the square, arguably the most famous in Florentine, and the Ahavat Chesed Synagogue. The synagogue once stood as the vibrant hub of life in this quarter, founded by Rabbi Yedidia Frenkel.
Rabbi Frenkel was for many years a well-respected figure in Tel Aviv, known for creating a unique Tel Aviv tradition - the Song of the Sea (Shirat HaYam). On the seventh day of Passover, Rabbi Frenkel would lead a procession through the entirety of Florintin, down Allenby Boulevard, and onward to the sea. Accompanied by a crowd of followers, they would sing Shirat HaYam upon reaching the shore.
The Song of the Sea is one of three prayer songs mentioned in the Torah, and it commemorates the miracle of the parting of the sea before Moses during the Exodus from Egypt. Today, this small synagogue mainly gathers a minyan (a quorum of ten adult men required for certain religious obligations) during holidays. The sense of community it brings to the heart of Florentine is a testament to its enduring significance in this vibrant neighbourhood.
Our open discussion will revolve around the unique and vibrant neighbourhood of Florentine in Tel Aviv, where we'll explore its distinctive street art, contemporary culture, and rich history. We'll touch on various artists, including Kislev and Murielle Cohen, and explore their interpretation of this neighbourhood's ever-changing emotional and societal implications.
As for what lies for us ahead in Florentine, it's an exciting opportunity to marvel at the vivid street art that adorns its buildings, dive into bustling local pubs, and engage with the colourful personalities that will form the beating heart of this district. Florintin will unfold before us as a place where the modern pulse of Tel Aviv meets the echoes of its past, promising a truly unique and immersive experience.
