Kfar Vradim

Kfar Vradim
Hebrew transcription(s)
  Hebrew כְּפַר וְרָדִים
  ISO 259 Kpar Wradim
Kfar Vradim
Coordinates: 32°59′45.64″N 35°16′30.75″E / 32.9960111°N 35.2752083°ECoordinates: 32°59′45.64″N 35°16′30.75″E / 32.9960111°N 35.2752083°E
District Northern
Founded 1984
Government
  Type Local council
  Head of Municipality Sivan Yechieli
Area
  Total 4,701 dunams (4.701 km2 or 1.815 sq mi)
Population (2008)
  Total 5,800
Name meaning Village of Roses

Kfar Vradim (Hebrew: כְּפַר וְרָדִים) is a town (local council) in northern Israel, with a population of 5800 (2008). It is situated just south of Ma'alot-Tarshiha and about 14 kilometres (8.7 mi) south of the border with Lebanon. Kfar Vradim is close to major cities like Nahariya (20 kilometers) and Karmiel (16 kilometers). Kfar Vradim was established in September 1984. Its founder, Stef Wertheimer, sought to create an industrial town within the midst of nature.

Kfar Vradim started as a town with 50-100 families, and at first had no electricity and running water. The first families to move were mostly workers at ISCAR Metalworking, a successful factory owned by Stef Wertheimer specialising in metal blades and high performance cutting tools. Initially, Kfar Vradim received no support or recognition from the Israeli government, which didn't consider it to be a valid town, resulting in a financial crisis. Eventually, it was recognized and began receiving support.

Climate

Kfar Vradim is situated between 550–620 meters (1800–2050 feet) above sea level, providing for a relatively dry and Mediterranean climate. Peak temperatures in Kfar Vradim in summer typically reach about 38 °C (100 °F), while its January and February temperatures can drop to as low as −2 °C (28 °F). Average temperatures range from 10 to 15 °C (50 to 59 °F) in the winter to 28–32 °C (82–90 °F) at summer. Precipitation is mostly between October and March and is mainly made up of rain showers and scarce snowfall.

Transportation

Kfar Vradim is neighboured by Ma'alot-Tarshiha and Yanuh-Jat, and is connected to the main roads in Northern Israel by Road 854. Road 8721 runs through the town, connecting it to Yanuh-Jat. Buses leave Kfar Vradim daily (except Saturday) to Ma'alot (Lines 82, 12), Karmiel (line 12) and Nahariya (line 43).

Education

Kfar Vradim is home to an elementary school (Keshet school) and a junior high school (Amirim Junior High). In addition, there are several kindergartens in the town. A high school is currently being built.

External links