Haifa is a multicultural metropolis with no fewer than six major religious traditions represented in the city, including Baha’I, Ahmadi, and Druze in addition to Jews, Muslims, and Christians. On this tour we will learn about the unique history of Haifa, visit some important holy sites, and meet members from these various faith traditions to better understand what makes this city an island of tolerance in a turbulent region.
Our tour begins with an unparalleled overlook from Louis Promenade above the spectacular Baha’I Gardens and golden-domed Shrine of the Bab. Here we will examine Haifa’s unique history, how the Persian Baha’I movement established itself here in the 19th century, and why it serves today as the world headquarters for this religion. In the process, we will also learn about the tenets of what is one of the fastest growing religions in the world.
From here, we continue to the beautifully adorned Stella Maris Monastery, which serves as the world headquarters of the Carmelite Order, one of the largest Catholic orders. The church was built around a grotto that is believed by the Christian community to be the cave where Elijah prayed prior to confronting the Priests of Baal. We will meet with a local priest and learn about how this Catholic order was founded in Haifa in the 13th century and the contemplative ideals that distinguish this order from those of its time.
Continuing down the slopes of the mountain through the leafy German Colony, we head to the bustling Muslim Wadi Nisnas market area for a tasting tour. We will learn about the cultural importance of classic Middle Eastern cuisine and meet with local restauranteurs to try what Haifans (rightly!) consider to be the best Falafel and Hummus in the country. In addition, we will stop by a coffee grinder to check out the latest blends and end our tastings at a colorful sweetshop with bites of baklava and Cnafe, the gooey Palestinian national sweet.
After filling up on these traditional foods, we will make the short drive to the other Elijah’s Cave. Recently renovated, this Elijah’s Cave (unlike the one in the monastery) is sacred to Jews, Muslims and Druze and is located at the foot of the Carmel Mountain. We will take this opportunity to learn about the importance of Elijah to these non-Christian traditions.
Lastly, we will drive to the Mahmood Mosque in the Kababir neighborhood to meet with members of the Ahmadiyya community to learn about this faith tradition. Founded in Qadian, India in the late 19th century, the Ahmadis are a reformist Islamic-based movement whose official motto is “Love for all. Hatred for none.” Haifa is unique for being home to the only Ahmadi mosque anywhere in the Middle East.
For Questions, Contact Dr. Eyal
At 053-3328322
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