akko al jazzar mosque

Akko is a port city along Israel’s northern shore, 20 km south of the border with Lebanon. With its rich history, well-preserved remains, and colorful modern-day market, it’s no wonder Akko is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts tourists from all over the world.

History of Akko

Akko’s earliest human settlement was in the Canaanite times. Phoenicians, Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Muslims, and Ottomans all ruled Akko in turn, but perhaps the Crusaders were the most significant ones who made Akko their capital in the 13th century CE. Akko’s old city layout is mainly based on the Crusaders’ city. In 1799, Akko’s reinforced walls rebuffed Napoleon’s assault. Later, in the 19th century, the Ottomans imprisoned the Baha’u’lla, the most significant person in the Bahai faith, in Akko. His prison cell and home near the city eventually became holy shrines for Bahai believers. After the state of Israel was established, Akko became a religiously diverse city. Today, you will notice Jews, Christians, and Muslims living in Akko side by side with predominantly Muslim population in the Old City.

Touring Akko

akko knights halls shutterstockThe state of Israel financed large-scale excavations and tourism development in Akko. The Hospitallers Citadel is probably the best site to appreciate the impressive scope of the Crusader city. Today’s huge halls can attest to the large-scale military operations the Crusaders conducted to defend the kingdom. It’s also evidence of their commercial involvement and efforts to build accommodations for the increasing flow of Christian pilgrims from Europe visiting the Holy Land.

Next to it, Al-Jazzar Mosque illustrates one of the best and most prominent examples of Muslim religious architecture from Ottoman times. Not as big but similar in design, Akko’s Turkish Hammam, behind the mosque, is also an excellent example of Ottoman architecture and culture.  Continue walking along the winding street of the leading market of the old city. The Main street of Akko’s old city is a famous bazaar. In the morning, the local fisherman showcases the “catch of the day.” At lunch time, the local hummus and shawarma restaurants are great options for authentic street food.

Sailing Around Akko

speed boat ride akkoThe “golden days” of Akko’s port are long past, but the harbor still serves local fishermen and offers tourists a sail around the Old City’s walls. For those seeking a more extreme experience, speed boats offer 10-minute adrenaline-filled speed rides. You can also walk underground along the Templars Tunnel towards the lighthouse from the port. Near the Old City, the Akko Mosaics synagogue and the Tomb of Baha’u’llah (Bahji) are also well worth visiting.

A tour of Akko can be part of a day tour in the north.

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