Ramla – Flavors, History, and a Moment of Serenity

Ramla – One of Israel’s oldest and most surprising cities, where every alley tells a story and every scent in the market evokes a different home. If you’re looking for a Friday morning trip in central Israel that combines great food, rich history, and warm people – this is the place for you.

🗺️ Convenient distances:

• Granada Winery (Gan HaDarom): about 35 minutes drive

• From Tel Aviv: about 30 minutes drive

• From Be’er Sheva: about 55 minutes drive
  

🕍 The Great Pool and the White Tower – A Glimpse into History

At the heart of the city lies one of Israel’s most impressive sites – the Great Pool. An enormous underground water reservoir from the early Muslim period (8th century), accessed via ancient stairs, where you can row a small boat under stone arches. A short walk away stands the White Tower, a remnant of a 13th-century mosque, offering breathtaking views of the entire Shephelah region.

It’s recommended to arrive early – the morning light turns the stone a golden hue, highlighting the magic of the place.

🛍️ Ramla Market – A Feast of Sights, Scents, and Flavors

Friday in Ramla always begins at the city market, one of the most colorful and flavorful markets in the country. Enjoy warm pita, fresh hummus, spices, halva, and local fruits and vegetables – a true sensory experience.

Don’t miss the old borekas stall at the main gate and the traditional Iraqi pastry with its nostalgic flavor.

For a deeper experience, join a guided culinary tour of the market, which includes tastings, street stories, and encounters with veteran merchants – a perfect Friday morning activity.

🕌 The Great Mosque and Nabi Saleh Tomb

Not far from the market is Ramla’s Great Mosque, an impressive building in the city center built on the remains of a Crusader church. It’s one of Israel’s remarkable architectural sites, with massive stone columns and a vaulted ceiling. Nearby is the Nabi Saleh Tomb, a sacred site and pilgrimage destination for both Muslims and Jews – another quiet, special spot in the bustling city.

☕ Coffee and Pastry Stop

Before leaving the city, it’s worth stopping at one of the small cafes near the market or the White Tower for a short espresso and a sweet pastry – a perfect moment before heading south to Granada Winery 🍷

🕓 Recommended Friday Morning Itinerary in Ramla

08:30 – Visit the Great Pool and the White Tower09:30 – Explore Ramla Market and enjoy culinary tastings10:30 – Visit the Great Mosque and Nabi Saleh Tomb11:30 – Coffee and morning wrap-up at Granada Winery 🍷

A nearby, flavorful, and lively trip – perfect for a Friday morning with authentic Middle Eastern charm.

🍷 A Moment of Inspiration from Granada Winery

“Just like in the Ramla market – at our winery, everything starts with the land, the people, and the true taste of life.

Every pomegranate carries a story, and every glass of wine is a small celebration of simple, beautiful moments.”