Akko: Israel’s Northern Mediterranean Coastline Treasure

Why is Akko considered one of Israel’s most valuable treasures? Maybe... it’s because of Akko’s eclectic mix of cobblestone streets and passageways that date back to the Romans, Ottomans, Crusaders, Mamelukes, and the Byzantines. The city that has been etched in the culture and history of so many peoples and religions, is today home to a blended population of Christians, Muslims, and Jews.

Or perhaps... it’s the city’s vibrant Arab shuk (outdoor market) that is both spectacle and ceremony of the architecture of the Old City itself. It is here that you can find spices from the time of Bible, colorful produce, freshly caught fish, mouthwatering Arab pastries, and the lingering scent of the Hookah pipe. Built in the latter half of the 1700s, and restored in 2011, the Turkish Bazaar is now an enticing attraction in the Old City. Filled with small galleries and shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs, its narrow streets serve traditional Turkish coffee prepared in an ibrik, a small coffee pot heated on an open flame.

Another reason might be... Akko’s renowned hummus restaurants, many of which are family-run for generations, and deemed Israel’s ‘best hummus’ by locals and visitors alike. And then, of course, are Akko’s celebrated seafood restaurants, with its popular sea bass, grouper, and fresh catch-of-the-day.

But maybe... Akko’s real treasure is taking a walk along the city’s 1,000 year old ramparts walls. Breathtaking views from the shores of the Mediterranean with the backdrop of the Akko skyline, bring the city’s rich history to life.

Or could it be... the Templars’ Tunnel, which was once a strategic underground passageway connecting the Templar palace to the port. Built by the Knights Templar in 1187, this spectacular 350 meter long tunnel with its underground stream and domed ceilings, takes you back to ancient times, if only for a few short minutes.

Or just maybe... for all of these reasons, and more, Akko is, and will remain, Israel’s northern Mediterranean coastline treasure.