Sarahiya House, Ottoman town hall in Beersheba, Israel.
Sarahiya House is a two-story administrative building from the Ottoman period featuring characteristic geometric patterns and regional building materials. The structure displays typical Ottoman features such as symmetrical window arrangements and sturdy masonry throughout its design.
The building was constructed in 1901 during Ottoman rule and marked the introduction of formal administrative structures in the growing city. This represented a turning point when Beersheba began establishing itself as an urban center.
The name Sarahiya comes from the Turkish word Serai, reflecting Ottoman administrative language that shaped local building traditions. The structure embodies this linguistic connection through its design and its place in the city's identity.
The building is located in the Old City quarter and is accessible on foot when exploring the narrow lanes of the historic zone. Best access comes from the central market area, where several other historic structures also stand nearby.
Sarahiya House represents one of the Negev region's oldest permanent administrative structures, built long before modern urban development. Its existence shows that Beersheba held administrative importance even during early Ottoman times.
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