Beersheba, Urban center in Negev Desert, Israel.
Beersheba is a city in the Negev Desert in Israel, sitting about 260 meters above sea level (853 feet) on open desert ground. The streets run wide and straight, broken by numerous roundabouts connecting modern residential districts and commercial zones.
Troops from the British army, including Australian Light Horse units, took the city from Ottoman forces during World War I. This military success in 1917 formed part of a broader campaign to gain control of the southern desert region.
The city's name comes from the Hebrew word for well, pointing to the early importance of water sources in the area. Several stone wells scattered around the center remind visitors of this tradition, while public parks along dry riverbeds offer spaces where families gather for walks and rest.
The city's streets are easiest to explore on foot or by bus during the day, with open plazas and wide sidewalks making movement straightforward. In summer months, temperatures often climb very high, so an early morning visit is more comfortable than afternoon outings.
The city counts more chess grandmasters per capita than any other settlement worldwide, reflected in regular competitions and dedicated chess centers. Game halls and clubs offer space for beginners and professionals who train together and compete in tournaments.
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