The Templars’ Tunnel in Akko
The Templars Tunnel is one of the most fascinating yet mysterious attractions in Akko‘s old city. Stretched over 500 feet, this passageway links the Templars’ ancient headquarters with the city’s port. Its layout is clear, but its purpose is still questionable.
The Templars and the Templars’ Tunnel
In 1994, a resident of Akko’s old city complained of hearing constant water leaks under his house. The plumber was surprised to discover a large-scale underground tunnel with seawater running through it. An archaeological team uncovered the entire length of the tunnel and drained its water. Most of the tunnel is carved in bedrock and covered by a barrel vault of hewn stones. Since the tunnel connects the city’s port with the Knights’ Templars headquarters, it was called “the Templars’ Tunnel.”
The Knights Templars
During the Crusaders period, several monastic-military orders operated in the Holy Land. The Knights Templars provided armed escort and guidance to Christian pilgrims. Having their main headquarters in Jerusalem’s Temple Mount, they were called “The poor fellow knights of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon” – or, in short, “The Knights’ Templars.” Their complex in Akko had a grand design, including 28-foot thick walls and two gilded lions over the entry towers. After the fall of Jerusalem in 1187 CE, Akko’s complex became their headquarters until its conquest by the Muslims in 1291 CE. Unfortunately the Ottomans used the former Templars complex for ammunition storage, and in 1840 British exploded it. Today, only its foundations are visible, while its southern end is used as a lighthouse.
Touring the Templars’ Tunnel
The site is open every day of the week and has an entry fee. It can be entered at both ends, one next to Khan el-Umdan, an Ottoman-era caravanserai, and the other next to the renowned Uri Buri Fish restaurant. Audio-visual displays along the tunnel present further details about the Crusaders and Akko.
A tour of the Templars Tunnel and Akko can be combined with a day tour of Akko, Haifa, and Caesarea.
