This historic building, with its striking white-stone window frames set in black basalt walls, was constructed in 1850 and originally named the “Haifa Hotel.” During the mid-19th century, it was fashionable to name hotels after cities, evoking a sense of modernity and prestige. However, its story remarkably turned in 1946 when the legendary Egyptian singer Umm Kulthum stayed here. Her visit left such a lasting impression that the hotel was renamed in her honour, adding another layer to its already rich history.
Following the establishment of the State of Israel, the building evolved into a vibrant hub of bohemian life, a place of cultural significance. It became a gathering place for artists, hosting exhibitions, performances, and creative evenings. Today, this tradition lives on. The former hotel now functions as a boutique hotel and cultural centre, blending art and history to create a unique and inspiring atmosphere where every corner whispers stories of its illustrious past.
A stroll along the Tiberias promenade, a mere hour-long, is a journey through time. It's a place where the lives of Prague and Vitebsk rabbis intersect with the legacies of Israeli generals and politicians. Here, the figures of Roman rulers, Jewish sages, medieval knights, and Muslim merchants, a diverse ensemble of history, come to life.
Initially, it may appear as a modest waterfront in a small lakeside town. However, it harbours numerous unexpected twists of history, stories that are now known to only a few, offering a surprising peek into the layered past of this remarkable city.
