For our last full day in Israel we headed to the Mediterranean coast and made a few stops on our way down to Tel Aviv.
Acre
Though this is one of the longest occupied cities in the area, it really didn’t become an important port city until the Crusader time. It also became strategic to the Turks during the Ottoman empire when they famously repelled a siege by Napoleon there.
Exploring the Knights Hall and surrounding areas, it really felt like what you would picture Crusader castles to look like with vaulted ceilings and columns.
We also visited the Turkish Bath house.
We also took a walk down the Templars Tunnel, which led to the sea.
Haifa
On the other side of the bay is the city of Haifa which sits below Mount Carmel.
Our first stop though was to visit the Baháʼà World Centre which is the center of the Baháʼà faith (which none of us were very familiar with). The faith was started in 19th century in Iran but was forced out due to persecution and have made their base here. They believe all major religions are simply pointing to the same god.
We also went to an overlook on Mount Carmel.
Jappa
Jappa or Joppa was mentioned a few times in the Bible, most famously as the port that Jonah tried to flee from and the location where Peter had his vision about the sheets of unclean animals. Today it has a vibrant touristy type of flair.
Testing out the Mediterranean waters.
The clock tower in the little shopping district and visiting a cool bakery to pick up dinner since our last night was more remote and didn’t offer a dinner.
Neve Shalom in Judean Hills
A few kilometers outside of Tel Aviv is the cooperative village of Neve Shalom which was founded by Israeli Jews and Arabs in an attempt to show that they can live in peace. They have opened a retreat center and created little villas that you can rent for the night. It was a lovely setting for our last night together and in Israel.
Enjoying our last meal together.
The fields leading up to Tel Aviv in the distance.
