Street signs tell silent stories. Ha’esrim, also known as Garden of the Twenty, holds secrets. It invites us to reflect on Jerusalem’s complex layers.
The name Ha’esrim means “The Twenty” in Hebrew. But what twenty? What event does this name commemorate? The answers remain elusive.
Our exploration begins on Street of the Prophets. This east-west road starts outside Damascus Gate. It ends at Davidka Square. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it was a prime location. Hospitals, churches, consulates, and wealthy residents called it home. Today, its 19th-century architecture still inspires. Many consider it the most beautiful street outside the Old City.
Street of the Prophets gained importance as Jerusalem expanded. It lay beyond the Old City walls in the mid-19th century. Initially, it was simply “Street of the Hospitals” or “Street of the Consuls”. The British Mandate officially named it Street of the Prophets. Ronald Storrs, Governor of Jerusalem, chose the name.
Some say the street honors the prophets of Israel. Others believe it recognizes prophets of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The nearby tomb of Nebi Akasha connects to this idea.
Let’s consider the diverse residents of Street of the Prophets. Unlike other areas, it wasn’t exclusively Jewish, Christian, or Arab. Ottoman officials, consuls, and affluent residents lived side by side. This mix created a unique cultural center.
Perhaps the name Ha’esrim relates to one of the many institutions. Street of the Prophets housed important establishments. Hospitals like Meyer Rothschild Hospital and the German Deaconess Hospital once stood here. Consulates, including the Ethiopian Consulate, added to the street’s international flavor. Even the U.S. Consulate General was once located near here. Hotels like the Kamenitz Hotel and San Remo Hotel welcomed visitors.
Theories abound. Could “The Twenty” refer to twenty significant figures? Perhaps twenty events that shaped the area? Maybe twenty victims of a tragedy?
Consider the military history of Street of the Prophets. During the World Wars and the 1948 Arab-Israeli war, buildings served military purposes. The English Mission Hospital became a military hospital. The Italian Hospital became the headquarters for the British Royal Air Force.
The eastern end of the street was no man’s land in 1948. It separated Israel and Jordan. The reunification of Jerusalem in 1967 brought it back to Israel. Maybe, “The Twenty” relates to this event.
Despite the lack of a definitive answer, Ha’esrim sparks reflection. It serves as a reminder of untold stories. It invites us to delve deeper into Jerusalem’s past. Though its meaning may remain hidden, the name Ha’esrim encapsulates the enigmatic charm of Jerusalem. It is a place where history and mystery intertwine.