Running through the heart of Afridar is a very large park that is called the “Desha HaGadol”, which literally means the “great lawn”. We have not seen an English translation that really describes this wonderful urban park that forms the center of Afridar.
Whatever it is called, the Desha HaGadol is quite unique for an Israeli city. Running from Sderot Drom Africa on the east down to the corner of Aliza Tagar and Sderot Drom Africa on the west (Drom Africa surrounds the center of Afridar), this green space is a favorite of everyone who lives in the area. The park follows the natural contour of the land as it descends towards the Mediterranean Sea.
At the top of the park are a group of benches that enable people sit and watch the Zephania Square across the street, under the shade of some tall trees. Immediately when entering the park is the large sun dial sculpture installation by Yigal Tumarkin. As you descend, you will see paths on the north and south sides of the park. On the southern path there are two ancient columns that start you on your way down to towards the sea.
On both sides of the park are a number of entrances to private homes as well as laneways with homes on either side. This enables pedestrians to cut across the park as well as access to the park for residents living in the homes within Afridar.
