The American Colony in Tel-Aviv was established in 1866 by 156 devout Christians from Main, USA. They immigrated to the Holy Land, believing their support of re-establishing the Jewish presence in the Holy Land would eventually lead to the return of Jesus. The vision ended quickly and tragically when the congregation was hit by Cholera, killing many of the members. By 1868, most of the community had dispersed to Europe or returned to the US. In 1871, the German Templar Movement purchased the semi-abandoned plot of the American Colony. They added a Neo-Gothic church and Beit Immanuel – a guesthouse, office, school, and community hall.

Touring the American Colony

Located in the southern part of Tel Aviv, between Neve Tsedek and Jaffa, the American Colony is a small yet quaint neighborhood with a unique atmosphere. Some of its original wooden buildings were nicely conserved, and one functioned as a heritage center of the colony (the Main Friendship House).

A tour of the American Colony can be combined with a guided day tour to Jaffa and Tel Aviv.