Akko's Breathtaking Bahá'í Gardens: A UNESCO Gem Awaits

If planning a trip to Israel, you should consider visiting Akko and the Bahá'í Gardens. These two destinations are must-see attractions with rich history and cultural significance. In this blog post, we will provide a brief history of Akko and the Bahá'í Gardens and explain why they are worth visiting.

A Brief History of Akko and the Bahá'í Gardens

Akko is an ancient port city in northern Israel that has been inhabited for thousands of years. It has a rich history has been ruled by various empires and kingdoms, including the Greeks, Romans, Crusaders, Ottomans, and British. Today, Akko is a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts visitors from all over the world.

The Bahá'í Gardens in Akko are a series of terraced gardens that were created by the Bahá'í Faith community in the 1990s. The Bahá'í Faith is a monotheistic religion founded in the mid-19th century in Iran. Its followers believe in the unity of all religions and the essential oneness of humanity. The Bahá'í Gardens in Akko are a pilgrimage destination for members of the Bahá'í Faith and are also open to the public.

The Bahá'í Gardens in Akko is a beautiful and serene oasis that offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city of Akko. The gardens are meticulously landscaped, including fountains, pools, and intricate pathways. Visitors can take guided tours of the gardens and learn about the history and teachings of the Bahá'í Faith.

Akko and the Bahá'í Gardens are two destinations that offer a unique and enriching cultural experience. Whether you are interested in history or religion or simply appreciate beautiful landscapes, these two destinations should be on your itinerary when visiting Israel.

 

UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Bahá'í Gardens

If you're looking for a unique cultural experience in Israel, the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko are worth visiting. The gardens are not only a pilgrimage destination for Bahá'í Faith members but also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The significance of the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko

The Bahá'í Faith is a monotheistic religion that emphasizes unity and oneness, and the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko are a physical embodiment of these beliefs. The terraced gardens were created by the Faith community in the 1990s and provide a beautiful and serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The gardens offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city of Akko and are meticulously maintained with fountains, pools, and intricate pathways.

The Gardens as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 2008, the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko were declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, along with other Bahá'í Gardens in Haifa and elsewhere. According to UNESCO, the gardens "indicate exemplarily the aesthetic values, religious beliefs, and international significance of the Bahá'í faith." In addition to its cultural and religious significance, the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko also demonstrate exceptional engineering and landscaping techniques.

Visiting the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko is a must-do experience for visitors to Israel. The gardens offer breathtaking views, a peaceful atmosphere, and a unique cultural experience that highlights the values of unity and oneness. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the gardens also have international significance and demonstrate exceptional engineering and landscaping techniques.

 

The Terraces of the Bahá'í Gardens

If you're seeking an escape from the chaos of city life in Israel, the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko offer a serene atmosphere that is well worth experiencing. The terraced gardens embody the Bahá'í Faith's unity and oneness core tenets.

The different terraces of the Gardens and their features

The gardens are composed of nine terraces spanning the city's base to its peak. Each terrace is unique, with its distinct design features. For instance, the first terrace has a plaza with a fountain made of stones imported from China, designed to symbolize unity. On the second terrace, the garden's paths are lined with palm trees, while the third has a pool that reflects the sky's colours during sunset.

Visitors can explore several pergolas with vines on the fourth terrace, while the fifth has a stunning waterfall. The next terrace boasts a path with intricate flowers and herbs, while the seventh has a fountain with coloured lights, creating an enchanting atmosphere during nighttime. The penultimate terrace provides visitors with a few quiet spaces that have impressive views of the city and the sea, while the final terrace is home to the golden-domed Shrine of Bahá'u'lláh, the founder of the Bahá'í Faith.

The view from the top of the Gardens

At the top of the Bahá'í Gardens, visitors are rewarded with mesmerizing views of the gardens and surrounding city and sea. From this viewpoint, visitors can also see other UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the ancient city of Akko and the Western Galilee mountain range.

Exploring the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko is a unique cultural experience. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the gardens carry international significance and showcase exceptional engineering and landscaping techniques. Visitors can enjoy a serene escape and breathtaking views from the top of the gardens.

The Central Pathway

The design and structure of the Central Pathway

The Central Pathway is the heart of the Bahá'í Gardens. It connects the different terraces and is essential to the overall landscape design. The path comprises wide stone steps flanked by narrow channels filled with water. The pathway has a gentle slope, making it easily accessible to all visitors. The overall design of the Central Pathway is awe-inspiring and harmoniously blends with the surrounding landscape.

The symbolism behind the Central Pathway

The Central Pathway symbolizes the spiritual path of the Bahá'í Faith, which aims to bring unity and oneness among all peoples. The water channels on either side of the pathway represent the unity of all religions, while the stepping stones symbolize the soul's journey towards spiritual enlightenment. Walking along the Central Pathway gives visitors a spiritual connection and inspires a feeling of peace.

In summary, the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko are a sight to behold. It's a unique cultural experience that will not disappoint. With stunning landscapes, breathtaking views, and remarkable symbolism, visitors will enjoy a serene escape and leave feeling inspired.

 

The Lower Pathway

As you walk along the Central Pathway of the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko, you'll come across the Lower Pathway. This pathway is another essential part of the landscape design and offers visitors a unique experience. Here are some things you'll want to know about the Lower Pathway:

The history and purpose of the Lower Pathway

The Lower Pathway was created during the second half of the 20th century and connects the Bahá'í Gardens to the Shrine of Bahá'u'lláh. The pathway aims to give visitors a more intimate experience with nature than the Central Pathway. The Lower Pathway is also the perfect place to enjoy a quiet afternoon stroll, relax, and unwind, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful flowers.

The plants and flowers found along the Lower Pathway

The Lower Pathway is beautifully adorned with various plants and flowers. As you wander the pathway, you'll see olive trees, fig-trees, and even pomegranate trees. The pathway is also home to blooming wildflowers, such as poppies and chamomile that add colour to the scenery. The Lower Pathway is a nature lover's paradise and allows visitors to learn about and appreciate different types of flora.

Exploring the Lower Pathway of the Bahá'í Gardens is an experience not to be missed. The pathway's rich history, diverse flora, and intimate setting make it a popular destination for visitors seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

 

The Shrine of Bahá'u'lláh in Akko

As you continue your journey along the Lower Pathway of the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko, you'll eventually come across the magnificent Shrine of Bahá'u'lláh. This holy site is an integral part of the gardens and attracts visitors from all over the world. Here's what you need to know about the Shrine:

The significance of the Shrine and its history

The Shrine of Bahá'u'lláh is a sacred site for members of the Bahá'í Faith and serves as the final resting place of its founder, Bahá'u'lláh. Bahá'u'lláh was exiled to Akko in 1868 and spent the final years there, during which time he wrote some of his most important works. The Shrine was built in his honour to commemorate his life, teachings, and legacy.

Visiting the Shrine and its surroundings

Visiting the Shrine is a unique and powerful experience that's not to be missed. The site is beautifully designed and features stunning architecture, intricate decorations, and lush gardens. Visitors can tour the Shrine's interior, which houses priceless artefacts, photographs, and writings of Bahá'u'lláh, and pay their respects at his resting place.

Surrounding the Shrine, you'll find even more breathtaking gardens and pathways to explore. The gardens are meticulously maintained and feature diverse plants, flowers, and trees. You'll also come across fountains, benches, and other quiet areas to rest and reflect.

Overall, the Shrine of Bahá'u'lláh is a must-visit destination in Akko. Its significance, history, and beauty make it a truly unique experience that will stay with you forever.

The Western Terraces

If you visit the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko, you do not want to miss the breathtaking Western Terraces. This section of the gardens offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and is an enjoyable place to relax and admire the surrounding beauty.

The history and purpose of the Western Terraces

The Western Terraces are relatively new to the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko, having been completed in 2017. The terraces were built primarily to stabilize the hillside and prevent erosion, but they also connect the gardens' Lower and Upper Pathways. The design of the terraces is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, providing visitors with a perfect spot to sit and reflect.

The view from the Western Terraces

You can enjoy unparalleled views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea from the Western Terraces, with the ancient walled city of Akko in the distance. This view is particularly stunning in the late afternoon, as the sun sets over the sea and bathes the gardens with a warm glow. The terraces also offer a bird's-eye view of the Shrine of Bahá'u'lláh, nestled among the trees and gardens below.

Overall, the Western Terraces are an excellent addition to the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko. They provide both practical and aesthetic benefits and are a wonderful place to relax and enjoy one of the most beautiful views in Israel.

 

The Bahá'í Gardens at Night

After experiencing the magnificence of the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko during the day, you might consider visiting them at night. The gardens offer a unique and magical experience that is not to be missed.

Nighttime viewings and special events at the Gardens

During certain times of the year, the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko stay open after sunset, allowing visitors to witness the breathtaking beauty of the gardens under the stars. Additionally, the gardens occasionally host special events, such as concerts and festivals in the evening, creating a truly enchanting experience for attendees.

The atmosphere and experience of the Gardens at night

The atmosphere of the Bahá'í Gardens at night is entirely different from during the day. The various structures and landscapes within the gardens are artfully illuminated, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for contemplation and reflection. As you go through the gardens, you will be serenaded by chirping crickets and the gentle leaves rustling in the breeze.

Walking through the Bahá'í Gardens at night is a unique and surreal experience that should not be missed. The peaceful and reflective atmosphere, illuminated by the gentle glow of lights, allows visitors to truly appreciate the beauty and wonder of the gardens in a way that is difficult to capture during the day. If you find yourself in Akko, visit the Bahá'í Gardens at night for an experience you will never forget.

Practical Information and Tips

Hours, admission fees, and accessibility

If you plan to visit the Bahá'í Gardens in Akko at night, it's important to know that their hours are seasonal and subject to change. Check their website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and dates for nighttime viewings and special events.

Admission to the gardens is free, but donations are appreciated. Note that there are some restrictions on what you can bring into the gardens, including food, drinks, and pets.

The gardens are accessible for people with disabilities, with ramps and elevators available to access the different levels of the terraced gardens. Additionally, a shuttle service is available from the main entrance to the gardens for those who require assistance.

 

Tips for visiting the Bahá'í Gardens

• Wear comfortable shoes as there are a lot of stairs and steep inclines.
• Bring a jacket or sweater as it can get chilly at night, even in the summer.
• Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and unique atmosphere of the gardens at night.
• Plan to arrive early to avoid crowds and to have more time to explore the gardens.
• Take your time and enjoy the peaceful and reflective atmosphere.
• Respect the sacred nature of the gardens and follow the rules and regulations.

Visiting the Bahá'í Gardens at night is a truly magical experience you will treasure forever. Follow these practical tips and information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.