New Memorial Sites Emerge in Southern Israel to Remember October 7 Victims

In the Western Negev region, three years after the October 7th attacks, new sites are emerging that aim to commemorate those lost by celebrating the lives they lived. These locations, some conceived before the attack and others born from the trauma, offer spaces for reflection, remembrance, and connection to the people and land.

'Amit Cafe' in Kibbutz Re'im is a coffee cart established in memory of Amit Gabai, who was killed in the kibbutz just before his 18th birthday. His mother, Adi, and his close friend Kobi, founded the cafe to embody Amit's spirit of love for life and connection. The cafe serves coffee, sandwiches, pizza, salads, pastries, and desserts, aiming to be a simple, pleasant spot for people to gather in nature.

Pauker Winery in Kibbutz Nir Oz is a family boutique winery that continues the legacy of Gideon Pauker, who was murdered on October 7th. The Pauker family has a four-generation history in agriculture and settlement. Gideon Pauker, a founder of Kibbutz Nir Oz, had dreamed of planting a vineyard and producing wine, a dream he realized in 2006. After his death, his family worked to restore the vineyard and winery, which is now operated by his children and grandchildren, continuing his vision. The winery is open to the public on Fridays and by appointment on other days.

'Footprints of Bibas' is a memorial site located in a grove outside Kibbutz Tze'elim, dedicated to Shiri Bibas and her sons Ariel and Kfir, who were kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7th and murdered in captivity. The site, initiated by the community, features a central circular plaza with concrete imprints of Shiri's and her sons' footprints and hands, surrounded by dead-end circles symbolizing their cut-short lives and enduring memory. Designed by architect Zvika Pasternak, the minimalist memorial is open to the public.