Florentin is an old neighbourhood in south Tel Aviv, Israel. It differs greatly from other parts of Tel Aviv due to its long and varied history. Furthermore, it is a very eclectic neighbourhood with a mixed population.  It’s comprised mainly of Jewish immigrants, who ran factories and worked as garment traders. Florentin is also rife with poverty, dilapidation, and transient locals who morphed it into what it is today—a vibrant, artsy, youthful, yuppie neighbourhood with much to offer. Florentin is one of the coolest neighbourhoods in Tel Aviv.

The History

The early settlers to Florentin were poor Sephardic Jewish immigrants from North Africa, Bukhara, Bulgaria, and Greece. By and large, they created an industrial zone. They made a garment industry, and artisans built custom furniture, art galleries, markets, and stores selling Turkish, Greek, and Romanian foods.  For decades, the neighbourhood was considered a low-income neighbourhood that eventually deteriorated from working-class to slum, with many buildings becoming derelict. Over time, it fell into a state of disrepair. Florentin was home to many of the poorest, including illegal foreign migrants.

During the 1960s, many original residents moved out, and Florentin transformed into an artsy and bohemian neighbourhood. Very low rents and large abandoned warehouses and basements attracted artists and artisans to the area. They set up live-in art studios, art galleries and workshops, creating one-of-a-kind art and artisan furniture. 

This profound change created a unique and very arty neighbourhood, with people bringing a new and alternative bohemian lifestyle and culture.

The Present

Florentin now has many artist workshops and galleries, custom-made furniture and garment factories where Jews and Arabs run their businesses. In addition, there are many new and second-hand vintage clothing and furniture stores where one can pick up a bargain. 

Florentin has an abundance of cafes, galleries, arts and crafts, design studios, and nightlife, attracting a young, modern, and hipster culture. As a result, Florentin is known as “the city that never sleeps.” However, Florentin is still very dilapidated in parts, and the Tel Aviv municipality is working on improving the neighbourhood.

THE DEMOGRAPHY

The current population is youthful and arty. In addition, almost everyone living in Florentin has an average of two dogs and zero children.

the architecture

Most of the architecture is old and in original condition. However, some of the older buildings are being rebuilt. The old original buildings are unique, with different shapes, colours, and styles. Unfortunately, many of the buildings are marked for demolition, which is an open invitation for budding artists to utilise an opportunity for their creative talents.

THE FOOD

Being a multicultural neighbourhood has resulted in a very diverse cuisine. Cafes and restaurants cater to all types of food, including Middle Eastern, Eastern European, Asian, vegan, healthy, and fast food.

the nightlife

Florentin is a hard-working area with street art painters, furniture making, deliveries, and sightseers by day.  However, by nightfall, Florentin morphs into a lively and bustling neighbourhood. Bars and restaurants are open with music blaring out, sidewalks filled with people, and pizza and falafel stands. The district fills up with an eclectic mix of people, including locals and visitors from other areas; tourists and dogs of all shapes and sizes are welcome!

In contrast, the nightlife is alive and vibrant. There is an abundance of bars and nightclubs scattered throughout. In addition, live music and local performers can be heard throughout the streets during the day and evenings.

Following the influx of immigrants from Greece, Persia, Bukharan and Turkey in the 1930s, who wanted to keep their traditional foods, spice stalls and food stores were established. Levinsky Market was created and continues to provide the same traditional foods, such as nuts, dried fruit, baked goods, spices, household items, and fabrics. The Market is a fascinating, exciting and aromatic place to stroll through for great Turkish coffee and Israeli, Arabic and Turkish food. As a result of an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, homemade pasta and sauces available there, it tempts all tastes.

Levinsky market

 The Street Art

Without a doubt, Florentin has earned itself a reputation as one of the world’s top destinations for street art. As a result, many old buildings and garages are adorned with street art and murals. Unfortunately, some written art often has strong political and religious messages, which sometimes causes conflict between the locals and artists.

Many galleries showcase local and budding artists, with workshops offering lessons in painting street art and murals. Guided tours are available, but wandering through Florentin alone is safe and easy. Enjoy the vibe, culture, street art, cafes, and nightlife. Of course, part of the fun is walking through the streets and narrow alleys, finding new surprises around each corner.

Despite the illegal drawing on walls, the local municipality turns a blind eye, leaving the locals endless opportunities to utilise their spray cans and visual creative skills.

Florentin street art has no boundaries. There is an eclectic mix of colourful art, such as flowers, robots, androids, humanoids, aliens, typography, animals, political messages and some non-sensical.  

Florentin is a fascinating area to walk through. It is markedly bohemian and hipster. The contrast between the old and the new and the bohemian art scene is incredible. It is a most compelling must-see if visiting Tel Aviv. Florentin is undoubtedly very distinct and not like the rest of Tel Aviv.

Lovers of music, art, good coffee, gourmet food, and a great vibe will thoroughly enjoy visiting Florentin, Tel Aviv.