subject: Popular Sites In Haifa [print this page] Haifa is the third-largest city in Israel and the largest in the northern part of the country. The city is on the slopes of the historic Mount Carmel. Haifa itself has a long history that goes back to the Biblical era, and different people have ruled it over the centuries. Nowadays, Haifa is an important seaport and a great hub for tourism in northern Israel. Some of the things that make the city attractive are the stretches of beautiful beaches that offer a great relaxing experience.
The Town
Haifa is divided into three different zones according to their altitude on the slope of the mountain. On the lower parts is the Old City, which has a harbor and a coastal strip. The central zone is where you will find the city's main commercial center. The upper zone contains some of the best residential quarters in the city. You will also find several exclusive restaurants here. The Carmelite Underground Railroad linked the three zones in 1959.
The Bahai Shrine
One of the landmarks that define Haifa is the Bahai Shrine, which has a golden dome that seems to dominate the city. Mirza Ali Mohammed founded the Bahai faith in 1844, when he pronounced himself as the 'Bab' (Gateway) to God. In 1850, Mohammed was shot and this shrine is where you will find his tomb. He was a Persian, which is why the shrine is located within the Persian Gardens. Please note that you are not allowed to take pictures and you need to remove your shoes when you visit the mausoleum.
En Hod
This is a village of artists that was established in 1953 fifteen kilometers to the south of the city. The residents have formed a village cooperative to pursue their trade. Almost every family has at least one member who is one type of artist or another. You will find all kinds of artists here, from writers to actors to photographers to goldsmiths. There is a museum in the village, which mainly focuses on Dadaism.
Old Technion
Constructed between 1914 and 1924, Old Technion features a combination of Oriental aspects and Western ideas on how the space is organized. This former college of technology currently houses the Museum of Science and Technology and the Institute of Architecture.
The Carmelite Monastery
Situated on the western outskirts of the city on Cape Carmel is the Carmelite Monastery, which is dedicated to the prophets Elijah and Elisha. The monastery has gone through a series of destructions and rebuilding since the first was constructed in 1150. You will find scenes from the lives of the prophets. Adjoining the entrance is a small museum, while in front is the tomb of a wounded French soldier who was killed in 1799 under the orders of Ahmed el-Jazzar.
Cable Car
The cable car's upper station is opposite the Carmelite Monastery, from where the cableway runs down to the sea. As you ride along the way, you will listen to commentaries about the major buildings in the city.
Other places of interest include Elijah's Cave, Allone Abba, the Town Hall and several museums.
