A visit to Acre during a Christian Holy Land trip is part of the Israeli experience. The city of Acre, most commonly known as Akko, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back to the time of the Pharaoh Thutmose III. The city is at the northern extremity of Haifa Bay in the northern coastal plain region, and has traditionally been a focal point for commercial activity in it’s waterways due to the cities important location and access to sea.
The Mediterranean Sea waves crash it’s thick sandstone walls that have survived for centuries. The walls, fortresses and buildings of the city have been constructed and beautified by many nations throughout it’s long history. Thanks to this UNESCO designated Acre as a World Heritage Site in 2001. The city is a meeting place for East and West, old and new, beauty and ruins, all adding to its unique charm. With a rich variety of tourism sites from all major religions including Christian’s traveling to the holy land, there’s an interesting attraction and site around every corner.
Historically Acre was a strategic coastal link to the Levant, the Crusaders captured it on the first Crusade with the forces of St. John d’Acre, and many cultures have made it their home including the Ottomans who lived here for many centuries. Even Napoleon Bonaparte tried to conquer Acre, however after two months of siege and failed attempts to brake the city’s walls, he retreated in humiliating failure.
In the cities alleys experience open markets with the most delicious foods. The Acre market is also home to one of Israel’s most popular hummus restaurants, where locals and tourist alike wait in line to eat the savory foods. At Acre visit the large mosque, and the Christian monastery within the fortress walls, an inn and Turkish baths, halls built by the Knights Templar, with an amazing Templar tunnel and incredible archaeological sites. The city also offers interesting museums and many churches you can visit during a trip to Israel the holy land. Enjoy a deluxe accommodations with a row of hotels near the beach, the cities marina, restaurants and fishing port.
Besides the fascinating history that passes through Acre you’ll find the city hosts colorful city festivals that attract thousands of visitors and Christians traveling to the holy land from around the world. While Acre is not a normal stop during the typical holy land trip to Israel. You can make a safe and unique exception with a customized private tour and day excursion to Acre.