“Fancy a trip back to the late 19th century?” asks a voice in my head. Here stands Beit HaBilu’iyim. It is also known as Beit Anton Eyub. This house is a charming piece of history in Tel Aviv.
Beit HaBilu’iyim was built in the late 18th or early 19th century. It was not far from the road to Ramla and Jerusalem. In the 19th century Anton Eyub owned it. He was a wealthy man from Jaffa. His orchards were famous. He had a special flair for business.
The structure was built grandly. It was meant to impress visitors. Like other homes it had impressive elements. These included pointed arches and domes. All were important decorative features.
Like many houses, Beit HaBilu’iyim included a courtyard. It provided an inviting atmosphere for the orchards’ visitors. The courtyard enhanced the appeal. This is especially since the orchards produced the famous Jaffa oranges.
In 1882 fourteen Bilu’iyim arrived in Israel. The group rented the house. It was on the road from Mikveh Israel. They worked there. The group included 13 men and one woman. Chaim Chissin was among them. He described the house. “We went to rest with Simon the contractor. We needed Turkish sofas and small carpets. Also we needed a pretty table covered with embroideries. Servants are respectful and dear.”
In 1964 the house was recognized as a historical site. This recognition has helped protect it. It keeps people from building on top of it.
Later Neta Eylon lived here. This was to connect the settlement with the sea. Eylon’s company was 225 meters away. It was named “Menucha of the Bilu’iyim”. The building was meant to beautify and glorify the landscape. It was to become “Bilu’iyim Park”. This would evoke memories of a new agricultural settlement.
At the beginning of the 21st century, Salit Neta Eylon lived here. This created a continuous space between the sands and the sea. It reduced the separation between outside and inside the house.
The Tel Aviv-Jaffa Municipality recognized the building for preservation. This recognition was in 2005. Renovation work was carried out by builders and restorers. Great importance was attached to preserving the original features.
Today Beit HaBilu’iyim stands as a reminder. It reminds us of the city’s builders. The many arches and decorations still stand. They stand as a symbol of the era. They also highlight the deep connection to the land. This place echoes the dreams of the Bilu’iyim. It is a place of inspiration. It connects to the roots of the region.
Beit HaBilu’iyim continues to inspire. It is a testament to a period. It testifies to a period of growth. Also it shows the unique architecture. Like the aroma of orange blossoms it still enchants. It preserves the heritage of Jaffa’s orchards.