Old Technion building, Historic educational building in Hadar District, Israel
The Old Technion building is a three-story stone structure in Haifa's Hadar District that blends Western architectural elements with local design features, including pointed arches and extensive stonework across its facade. The building displays the craftsmanship of early 20th-century construction, with thick stone walls and decorative details that reflect the building traditions of the period.
Construction started in 1912 and was completed in 1913, though the building initially served as a hospital and military base before academic purposes. The institution later repurposed the structure for education and scientific work.
The building sparked a notable debate over the choice between German and Hebrew as the language of instruction, leading to delays in the institution's opening.
The building now houses the National Museum of Science, Technology and Space with educational exhibits and programs for visitors of all ages. The location in the Hadar District is easy to reach, and the site welcomes tourists.
Albert Einstein visited the building in 1923 and planted the first palm tree in front of it to mark the institution's dedication to science. This event and the tree remain part of the site's local legacy.
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