The city of Tel Aviv has a long and fascinating history that can be traced back to its origin. Officially founded in 1909 by the Jewish National Council, the city's name derived from an ancient Hebrew phrase meaning old-new or ancient-modern. This unique name reflects Tel Aviv's unique merging of history and modernity.
The first part of the word, tel, is derived from the Hebrew term for mound or ruin and was often associated with ancient cities because buildings were typically built on top of mounds in order to make them easier to defend. In this sense, it reflects both Tel Aviv’s historical roots as well as its location on a small coastal hill that was well defended from attack by sea.
The second part of Tel Aviv’s namesake actually has two possible sources. The most popular theory suggests that it comes from “aviv” which historically referred to an area around Jerusalem known for abundant farming and greenery (flowers appear earlier here each spring than other areas - hence a “springtime” metaphor). Another possibility is that it refers to a quote found in ancient writings attributed to Isaiah: “I will bring my people back home again after they have gone into exile; I will show them again my mercy; they shall hear my voice rejoicing over Jerusalem like one shouting on the day after Tevet (Aviv 8).
In any event, whether connected spiritually or geographically or otherwise – the phrase ‘Tel Aviv' encompasses what makes this city so uniquely special: it’s ability to blend tradition with modern innovation, creating something entirely new – something truly inspiring.