Historic Tzfat Mall Faces Uncertain Future After Decades of Decline
Translated & summarized from Israel Hayom by baba
A Tzfat mall, opened in 1983 as a symbol of progress, has become largely abandoned due to parking issues and competition. In July 2025, fire safety violations led to a closure order for parts of the complex. New developers purchased the property in 2026 with plans for renovation and revitalization.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Tzfat's historic mall, opened in 1983, faces closure due to fire safety issues.
- The mall has been largely abandoned for years due to parking and accessibility problems.
- The National Fire and Rescue Authority issued a closure order in July 2025.
- New developers acquired the complex in 2026 with renovation plans.
- The mall was built on the site of the former Or Cinema.
A large structure in the heart of Tzfat, once a symbol of the city's progress, now stands as a near-abandoned mall, over 40 years after its opening. Inaugurated in 1983, the mall was built on the site of the former Or Cinema, a popular entertainment hub. At its inception, the mall represented a modern, indoor shopping center, intended to revitalize the city's commercial center.
Initially, the mall thrived, attracting shoppers and contributing significantly to Tzfat's economy. However, challenges emerged over time, primarily due to a lack of convenient parking in the hilly city, which hindered accessibility as car-dependent shopping became more prevalent. This, coupled with the rise of more accessible shopping centers, led businesses to gradually vacate the premises, leaving large sections of the mall empty.
The situation worsened in July 2025 when the National Fire and Rescue Authority issued a closure order for parts of the complex, citing severe, long-standing fire safety violations that had not been adequately addressed.
Despite its dilapidated state and safety issues, the mall's story may not be over. In 2026, new developers acquired the property with plans to renovate it and attract commercial activity and major brands, potentially allowing the mall to fulfill its original promise as a symbol of Tzfat's future.