A Walk in the Park

Kislev Park on the Technion campus

The Technion recently introduced the “Connecting Paths” project, offering both its community and visitors a unique way to experience the campus through designated walking trails. As part of the project’s launch event, a guided tour was held with the participation of the Technion administration.

Technion President Prof. Uri Sivan cuts the ribbon at the project inauguration ceremony

The Technion campus spans the slopes of Mount Carmel, boasting numerous natural treasures, including the Technion Forest, the Ben-Dor stream drainage channel which connects to the Kishon River, and the ecological garden. The campus covers approximately 1,260 dunams, approximately 60% of which are comprised of forests, groves, and landscaping containing about 43,000 trees, many of which were preserved through relocation when their original sites were slated for development.

Mobile explanation – the Connecting Paths app

This distinctive trail includes 40 landmarks spread across five circular walking paths on the Technion campus. The route passes through notable spots like the Ecological Garden, the Nobel Laureates Avenue, the Obelisk, Kislev Park, and various monuments, bridges, and historical buildings. Each landmark along the way features a sign with a barcode, which, when scanned, leads to an app that guides visitors through the trails and assists with navigation. The app offers abundant information about the sites and charming spots along the interconnected trails.

Touring the campus offers an opportunity to enjoy the natural surroundings – a direct encounter that eases stress and provides a chance to reconnect with nature. Dr. Rafi Aviram, vice president and CEO of the Technion, remarked, “Our campus is part of a unique ecological environment, including natural forests, a wide variety of plants, and wildlife. The ‘Connecting Paths’ project enhances the accessibility of the campus for local residents and guests. Walking the Technion trails broadens horizons, showcases the campus’s beauty, and instills the values of nature conservation that we uphold.”

Dr. Rafi Aviram, vice president and CEO of the Technion, speaking at the ceremony

“As one of the world’s leading universities, the Technion emphasizes connecting the community and visitors to the campus, which is not only an academic space but also a natural and cultural treasure,” said Vice President of Operations Zehava Laniado. The project reflects our commitment to preserving nature and creating an enriching experience that combines research, nature, and history. I am proud of the extensive collaboration that brought this project to fruition and invite everyone to discover the unique beauty of the Technion campus.”

Sign marking the start of the trail

The “Connecting Paths” project was inaugurated on December 24, with the participation of Technion President Prof. Uri Sivan, Senior Executive Vice President Prof. Oded Rabinovitch, Vice President for Research Prof. Noam Adir, Vice President and CEO Dr. Rafi Aviram, and Vice President for External Relations and Resource Development Prof. Wayne Kaplan. The complex project came to life thanks to extensive cooperation between the Operations Division, Human Resources Division, Campus Sustainability Center, Ecological Garden team, Central Library, and the Public Relations and Resource Development Division.

Click here for the app (available on mobile phones only)