An Archaeological Tour of the Habitat Forum 1976 site at Jericho

This was the largest UN conference that had ever been held, and it was the founding conference of the UN agency UN-Habitat. The Forum was for NGOs and the public, and it attracted a who’s who of international thinkers on cities and society including Margaret Mead, Buckminster Fuller, Paolo Soleri, activists from around the world, Pierre and Margaret Trudeau and many others. 5 vintage WWI-era seaplane hangars (which were once situated adjacent to the building now housing the Jericho Sailing Club) had been beautifully refurbished for the Forum by thousands of volunteers, architects and craftspeople, and provided conference goers with beautiful conference ampitheatres, meeting rooms and social spaces. Despite public outcry, all of the hangars were burned down or demolished by 1980. This walking tour is therefore a tour of nothing, though traces of Habitat Forum remain if you know where to look. During a meandering walk around the site (about 1 km), the talk will also briefly touch on the fascinating history of the old seaplane base.

How will people find you?
I will have the original UN-blue Habitat flag on me, but if you don’t see that, look for blonde hair right outside the entrance to the Sailing Centre. NOTE: IF IT’S SUNNY, PLEASE BRING HAT & SUNSCREEN!
Route and stops
We will travel East from the Jericho Sailing Centre, along the path parallel to the water, then we will double back. We go into the sailboat yard to look at some of the hangar remains, then double back to the Sailing Centre to look at some of the architectural details on the water side. Those who want to stay on for a snack and beer at the restaurant are most welcome to gather!
Accessibility
Sidewalks, Dirt paths, Seated areas along the route
Participants
Seniors welcome, Children welcome, People with bicycles welcome, People with wheelchairs or walking aids welcome
Walk duration
1 hour approx, then feel free to join for snacks and drinks at the Sailing Centre’s cafe
More info