Ramla

Ramla is a city in the Central District of Israel, located on the eastern bank of the Lachish River near Lod and Tel Aviv. It forms part of the Tel Aviv metropolitan area. The city experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. It has a mix of residential neighborhoods, industrial zones, and public facilities.

Ramla's history stretches back to antiquity. In the early Islamic period (7th–8th centuries) it developed as a major administrative and commercial center under the Umayyads and at times served as a provincial capital. Over the centuries it came under Crusader and Ottoman rule, leaving a layered architectural heritage. In the 19th and early 20th centuries it was an agricultural town with a mixed population.

Since 1948, Ramla has grown substantially and today is a mixed city with Jewish and Arab residents. The local economy includes light industry, retail, and public services, with ongoing development projects to improve housing and infrastructure.

Transport links connect Ramla with Tel Aviv and surrounding communities via roads and rail. The city is served by Israel Railways and local bus lines. Ramla offers education through numerous primary and secondary schools, with nearby higher education institutions in neighboring cities.