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.

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Visiting The American Colony

Situated in the southern part of Tel Aviv, between Neve Tsedek and Jaffa, the American Colony is a charming neighborhood with a distinctive ambiance.

Several original wooden buildings have been carefully preserved, with one serving as the heritage center of the colony, known as the Main Friendship House.

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