GENERAL INFORMATION
Beersheva is the principal city of the Negev Desert, and has developed as the administrative, cultural, and industrial centre of the Negev. It is the trade centre for surrounding settlements and for Bedouins, who hold a weekly market in Beersheva.
Its population and economy have grown considerably since 1989 as a result of immigration from the former Soviet Union.
It is the home of the Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Soroka Hospital, and the Israeli Sinfonietta of Beersheva.
SIGHTSEEING
Abraham’s Well
Near a small stream known as Nahal Be’er Sheva there are two ancient wells that, as far back as they can recall, the Bedouins have used to water their flocks. The wells are indeed very old. Outside the complex built around the well is an ancient conifer tree which some say is the “Eshel “ that Abraham planted in Be’ersheva. Although the tree is indeed old, it is far less likely than the wells to have been a contemporary of Abraham.
Tel Sheva and the Brigade Memorial
To the north east of Beersheva lies Tel Sheva- the site of excavations of ancient Beersheva, from the Byzantine era. Many of the artefacts discovered are on display at the site. Also north east of Beersheva is the Negev Brigade Memorial. A landmark in cement sculpture, the memorial combines intricate and symbolic individual components to create an interactive memorial that represents the courage and heroism of the Negev Brigade, which successfully defended Beersheva against the Egyptians in the War of Independence.
The Shuk
Shuk is the Hebrew word for market. The Beersheva shuk is a series of intersecting covered alleyways where stall vendors hawk their wares. The shuk is frequented by representatives of all of Beersheva’s diverse population, so you are likely to meet Ethiopians, Bedouins, as well as recent immigrants of various nationalities.
Thursday is “ Open shuk “ which means anyone can sell his or her wares without renting space. You can find people selling everything under the sun, and there is camel trading in the morning as well.
TRANSFERS FROM BEN GURION AIRPORT
Taxi up to 7 passengers takes approximately three hours.
