Details

Private Acre and the Crusaders' Kingdom (HA 5)

 

Tour details:

After meeting your guide on the pier in Haifa, they will drive you for approximately 60 minutes to the northernmost point of Haifa Bay. Upon your arrival at Acre, you will begin to experience the decidedly medieval atmosphere of the area as you descend into the headquarters of the Knights of St. John. Part of this underground city was known as the Hospitaler Quarter because it was here that the knights received their medical care. Your tour takes you through a series of barrel-vaulted rooms called the Crusader Halls, which lead to the Refectory (dining hall). Also referred to as the 'Crypt', it is a true representation of Crusader architecture. Near to the Crypt is a stairway which leads to a long underground passage that is thought to be an escape tunnel that was built by the Crusaders in order to reach the port during attacks by Moslem forces.

Returning to the surface, you will next explore the Ottoman period of Akko's long and colorful history. This portion of your tour has you visiting the vibrant 18th century Turkish Bazaar, the elegant restored Turkish Baths - which are now a museum, and the lively marketplace with its exotic offerings and intoxicating scents. From the marketplace you will continue on to the enormous Kahn El Umdan, also referred to as the 'Pillar's Inn', an ancient caravanserai which once served the camel caravans.

Before leaving the city behind, you will make a stop at the picturesque Pisan Port which was built by Crusader seamen from Pisa, Italy. Then relax during your one hour drive back to the pier.

Please note: this itinerary is flexible