Have you noticed the unique atmosphere of the Scherover Culture Center? It stands as a testament to Jerusalem’s spirit. Let me share some insights about this place.
The Scherover Culture Center is part of a larger landscape. It is connected to the Haas Promenade. Together with the Goldman Promenade, it forms a continuous public park. This park stretches from Jabl Mukabar to Abu Tor.
The nearly mile-long promenade was a gift to Jerusalem. Mrs. Gitta Sherover donated it in memory of her son. Shlomo Aronson designed it. It was completed in 1989.
These promenades overlook the Old City from the south. They have become symbols of tolerance. People from all backgrounds enjoy them. Jews and Arabs. Religious and secular communities. Locals and visitors.
The Armon Hanatziv Promenade includes the Scherover Promenade. It also includes the Haas Promenade and the Goldman Promenade. Lawrence Halprin and Shlomo Aronson created these promenades.
The Haas Promenade was the first segment. It was completed in 1987. The Haas family funded it. This promenade features belvederes. These frame views of the Old City.
Shlomo Aronson completed the Scherover Promenade in 1989. It adjoins the Haas Promenade. A grand staircase connects them. The Scherover Promenade has three large pergolas.
The first pergola directs views toward the Mount of Olives. It sits in a slight depression. A stone walkway leads to the second pergola. Olive groves and wheat fields flank the walkway. The third pergola sits within a large belvedere. Beds of sweet pea and santolina surround it.
The promenade winds north. It offers more views of the Old City. You can see the Temple Mount. Finally, it reaches the Monastery of St. Claire.
The Scherover Promenade is built of Jerusalem limestone. It has wrought-iron lampposts. The olive groves evoke the region’s agricultural heritage. Aromatic plants add to the sensory experience.
The promenades were almost marred by new interventions. These aimed to create a more active recreational environment. A mountain of slides was proposed. However, many opposed these plans. They would adversely impact the original design.
Shlomo Aronson wanted an element of calmness. He wanted less tension in the design. The collaboration between Halprin and Aronson represents a passing of the baton. It is a transition from one generation to the next. It is also a transition from the United States to Israel.
The Haas Promenade holds special meaning for Halprin. He lived on this site as a boy. He remembered gleaning wheat from the neighboring fields. This memory inspired the planting of fields and olive groves.
The Scherover Culture Center and its surrounding promenades offer a unique experience. They provide a place for peaceful contemplation. They connect the built environment to its larger context. They serve as urban living rooms. Here, people gather and appreciate the unfolding historical narrative in a tranquil setting.