Baron Edmond Benjamin de Rothschild, also known as the "well-known benefactor" served a unique role in the history of the Jewish people.
He was one person whose good deeds encompassed all facets of the settlement in
Israel. The Baron, also known to the pioneers as the "father of the settlement", was a practical dreamer and nation builder who dedicated himself to the settlement, industrialization, scientific advancement, education and welfare of this emerging nation.
Baron Edmond de Rothschild, grandson of the "well-known benefactor", managed the family's banks, wineries, art collections, and numerous other business endeavors. But he was also a very committed Zionist. Where his grandfather made his mark in the purchase and settlement of lands, Baron Edmond is remembered for his contribution to the industrialization of Israel and his generous contributions to various education and cultural institutions. These two great men's descendants, management companies and the Rothschild- Caesarea Foundation continue to fulfill their legacies.
The Rothschild-Caesarea Foundation's goal is to adhere to its founder's principal concerns:
• Development of Caesarea as a unique settlement of high environmental and living conditions, a
regional industrial center and a national tourism center that benefits from the wonder of the Old
City of Caesarea and its magnificent coastlines.
• Contribution of a portion of the income derived from the development of Caesarea
to deserving organizations and programs that advance education, primarily higher education
in the State of Israel.
In accordance with Baron Edmond de Rothschild's wishes, the Foundation's wholly-owned subsidiary, the Caesarea Edmond Benjamin de Rothschild Development Corporation Ltd. (CDC), is responsible for development and improvement of the Foundation's lands for residential and industrial purposes, as well as for the benefit of tourism.
Activities include:
development of exclusive life-style residential areas; provision of high level
services and maintenance that preserve the community's unique qualities; development of the industrial and business park in Caesarea, with the goal of becoming the area's dominant source of employment and center of trade; development of the Archeological National Garden and surrounding areas as a tourist center; and, management of Israel's first and most renowned Golf Club, situated on Caesarea lands.
The Foundation itself is responsible for the prudent investment of resources received from the CDC. From a philanthropic perspective, the Foundation is committed to the promotion and advancement of the Israeli community, principally through support of higher education institutions and programs. The Foundation also provides funding for other education, and cultural projects that benefit the citizens of Israel.
The philosophies and outlooks of Baron Edmond Benjamin de Rothschild and his
grandson, Baron Edmond de Rothschild, guide the Foundation's grantmaking program and modus operandi.