The Bahai Gardens and Shrine in Haifa stand as one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring attractions in the city, drawing visitors from around the world. This meticulously manicured garden complex, harmoniously blending nature, architecture, and spirituality, offers a profound and enchanting experience.
The Bahai Faith
The Bahai faith is a relatively new one. It was founded 200 years ago by a Persian named Siyyid Ali Muhammad Shirazi. He revealed himself as the prophet Bab (meaning “gate” in Arabic) who sought to spread his beliefs. Bab was shunned by the Shia clergy even though he gained tens of thousands of followers. He was eventually executed, only six years after he began his movement. His efforts were continued by Mirza Husayn Ali Nuri who chose the name Baha’u’llah. Also hounded by the clergy and was expelled from the Ottoman Empire.
He continued his missionary work, even writing letters to historical leaders such as Pope Pious IX, Napoleon III, and Queen Victoria. In 1868, Baha’u’llah was banished to one of the Ottoman Empire’s most infamous prisons located in Akko (Acre). He was eventually allowed to purchase a house and live out the rest of his days in relative peace. Baha’u’llah’s son, Abdul-Baha, furthered his father’s work. The three of them became canonized as the three most important figures in the Bahai faith.
Today, some 7 million people now comprise the world’s fourth and latest monotheistic religion, Bahai; self-choosing it as their religious path in life. Each Bahai follower is required to make at least one pilgrimage to the two most holy sites. These are Haifa and Akko, both located in Israel.
The Bahai World Center in Haifa, part of the Bahai Gardens but off-limits to tourists, is where the faith’s international collective body makes its decisions, in the hands of nine elected leaders. Many of the gardeners in the Bahai Gardens are Bahais, that entered Israel on a unique worker’s visa.
The Bahai Gardens
The Bahai Gardens can be divided up into three sections. The lower section opens up to the German Colony. The middle section includes the gardens around the gold-capped Shrine of the Bab where his remains are kept. The upper section is just off the Louis Promenade and the main gate where the tours start. The Bahai Gardens reach close to a kilometer in length from the lowest gate at the German Colony to the main gateway up top.
The Bahá’í Gardens consist of a series of terraced gardens cascading down the slopes of Mount Carmel. These 19 garden terraces, meticulously landscaped with vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and immaculate lawns, form a stunning tapestry of colors and scents.
Each terrace offers a unique vantage point, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the city of Haifa, the Mediterranean Sea, and the surrounding landscape. As you ascend the terraces, you’ll be captivated by the meticulous design, symmetrical patterns, and tranquil atmosphere.
The Shrine of the Báb: A Spiritual Sanctuary
At the heart of the Bahai Gardens stands the Shrine of the Báb, a majestic and sacred structure. This shrine is the resting place of the Prophet-Herald of the Bahá’í Faith, whose teachings emphasize unity, equality, and the oneness of humanity.
Approaching the shrine, you’ll be struck by its architectural grandeur, characterized by its golden dome, white marble, and intricate ornamentation. The interior of the shrine exudes an atmosphere of serenity and reverence, inviting visitors to reflect and find solace.
Practical Tips for Visiting the Bahai Gardens
Visiting Hours: The Bahai Gardens are open to the public daily, except Wednesdays, from early morning to late afternoon. The exact visiting hours may vary, so it’s recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
The daily tour in English is at noon, requires no prior reservation, and is free of charge. Other tours are offered throughout the day in both Hebrew and Russian. The guided tour is the best way to truly experience the gardens from within. It also provides a magnificent backdrop of Haifa Bay. Starting at the main gate and winding down, the tour ends just before the Shrine of the Bab. The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes and contains 600 steps (so be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes). After the tour, an optional 20-minute video about the Bahais is shown.
Dress Code: To respect the sacred nature of the shrine, visitors are required to dress modestly. Both men and women should have their shoulders covered, and shorts or skirts should be below the knee. Shawls or wraps are available for loan at the entrance for those who need to cover up.
Photography: The Bahá’í Gardens and Shrine offer numerous photo opportunities, allowing you to capture the beauty and tranquility of the surroundings. However, it’s important to be mindful and follow any photography guidelines to ensure the sanctity and privacy of the space.
Getting There: The 23 bus can be taken from the German Colony. It winds around the Bahai Gardens and passes the main gate at the upper section of the gardens. Be sure to ask the bus driver when to get off. The gardens cannot be seen from the bus when driving above the gardens. The desired stop is located on Rechov HaNassi and a small street by the name of Dafna takes one down to the main gate. A large number of tour buses will indicate that you have arrived at the Bahai Gardens but be sure to walk 100 meters to the left of the main gate if you’d like to join the guided tour. At the end of the tour, leaving the gardens at Rechov HaTzionut, the guards and guides are more than happy to point you in the direction you need.
This has been a chapter from our book:
Haifa Revealed: A Traveler’s Guide to Israel’s Vibrant Seaside City
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