Description
Architectural Foundations
Adina Hoffman explores the physical and spiritual creation of modern Jerusalem. She focuses on the lives of three distinct architects. These men shaped the city during the British Mandate era. The book blends biography, history, and urban design. Hoffman reveals how their personal visions clashed with a complex reality. Consequently, she paints a portrait of a city built from stone and dreams.
Three Visionary Builders
The narrative begins with Erich Mendelsohn, a famous Jewish refugee from Germany. He brought sleek, modern lines to the ancient landscape. Next, the author examines the work of Austen St. Barbe Harrison. He served as the chief architect for the British government. Finally, she discovers the mysterious Spyro Houris. This Greek Orthodox builder left a lasting mark on the city’s neighborhoods.
Modernism and Tradition
The book highlights the clash between tradition and modernism. Each architect struggled to define what a “holy city” should look like. Furthermore, Hoffman discusses the political tensions of the time. The buildings reflect the hopes of different cultures living together. She uses archival research to uncover forgotten stories. Thus, the architecture becomes a mirror for the region’s diverse history.
Core Elements of the City
Notable structures and themes discussed include:
The Rockefeller Museum: A masterpiece by Harrison blending East and West.
Hadassah Hospital: Mendelsohn’s functionalist design on Mount Scopus.
International Style: The arrival of European modernism in the Middle East.
Cultural Identity: How stone and mortar express religious and national pride.
A Legacy in Stone
This work serves as a deep meditation on belonging and displacement. Hoffman writes with a poetic and observant eye. She reminds us that cities are more than just collections of buildings. Instead, they are living records of human ambition. Readers will gain a new perspective on Jerusalem’s contested streets. In conclusion, the book is a tribute to the power of design.
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