Be'er Sheva's Historic Market Undergoes Major Renovation
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Be'er Sheva's historic municipal market has been significantly renovated with a NIS 65 million investment, completing its first phase and preparing to welcome merchants back to modernized shops. The project, funded by government ministries and the municipality, aims to revitalize the market, which has a history dating back to 1905. The full renovation is projected to cost NIS 100 million and conclude by 2028, enhancing the shopping experience and restoring its role as a central urban hub.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Be'er Sheva's historic municipal market reopened after a NIS 65 million renovation.
- The first phase of the market's extensive upgrade is nearing completion.
- The total investment for the market's revitalization is expected to reach NIS 100 million.
- The renovation includes infrastructure upgrades and modernization of shopfronts.
- The project is anticipated to be fully completed by 2028.
- The market has a historical lineage dating back to 1905.
The historic municipal market in Be'er Sheva has undergone a significant facelift following an investment of NIS 65 million. The renovation, which included replacing all underground and overhead infrastructure like sewage, water, electricity, and communication systems, has transformed the market into a welcoming environment. Old asbestos roofs have been replaced with modern ceilings featuring advanced lighting and ventilation, crumbling walls have been reinforced, and iron shutters on shops have been updated. The flooring has been redone, preserving only an original symmetrical tile design. The first phase of the project, focusing on 'Quarter A', is nearing completion, with merchants set to return to their renovated shops by the end of October. This revitalization aims to restore the market's vibrancy, drawing back shoppers and enhancing the overall experience with improved navigation and amenities.
The project was a collaborative effort between the merchants' committee, the Be'er Sheva Municipality, and the municipal development company 'Yad'im', with funding from the Ministries of Tourism, the Negev, the Galilee, and National Resilience. The total planned investment for the market's complete overhaul is approximately NIS 100 million, with the remaining sections, including the food stalls and shops in the 'Beit' quarter, scheduled for renovation. These subsequent works are expected to commence within the next year and conclude by 2028, without disrupting ongoing commerce in the already refurbished areas.
The market's history dates back to 1905, initially serving as a Bedouin market established by the Ottomans to control trade routes. It evolved over the decades, expanding its offerings and changing operational days under British rule and after the establishment of Israel. The municipal market, as it is known today, was moved to its current location adjacent to the Bedouin market in the 1960s. In 2017, the municipality decided on the final closure of the Bedouin market, with a similar market later established in Rahat.
The renovated market now boasts improved accessibility, with wider pathways and clearly marked shop entrances. The return of merchants is expected to significantly expand the variety of food stalls, offering tasting opportunities for local delicacies like 'milpa' cake. The market's exterior areas also feature new stalls for clothing, jewelry, and electronics. Parking facilities have been improved, and public transport access remains convenient, with bus routes connecting to the central station. The market's entrance sign, "To buy, to taste, to fall in love," encapsulates its renewed spirit.