city, west-central Israel, on the Plain of Sharon just east of Tel Aviv–Yafo. Founded in 1921, it is the largest satellite city in the Tel Aviv–Yafo metropolitan area, with fine residential quarters, extensive parks and gardens, including a national park, and the nation's principal athletic stadium, seating 50,000 persons. It is also the home of Bar-Ilan University, a religiously oriented institution founded by American Jews in 1953. Light industries include the manufacture of chocolates, citrus preserves and concentrates, textiles, building materials, and cigarettes. Ramat Gan is also the home of Israel's Diamond Exchange. Inc. 1950. Pop. (2006 est.) 129,400.