The Baháʼí Gardens in Haifa, Israel are a stunning example of landscape architecture and a significant pilgrimage site for Baháʼís around the world. The gardens were created to beautify the surroundings of the Shrine of the Báb, the burial place of the Báb, the forerunner of Bahá’u’lláh.
So the Baháʼí Gardens consist of a series of terraces that slope down the side of Mount Carmel towards the Mediterranean Sea. Furthermore, they were designed to harmonize with the natural landscape and to create a sense of unity and harmony between the physical world and the spiritual realm.
The Báb
First, the Baháʼí Gardens were first laid out in the 1980s and have since been expanded and developed to their current form. Moreover, they are meticulously maintained and feature a wide variety of plants and trees from around the world, including roses, bougainvillea, and cypress trees.
Furthermore, at the center of the gardens is the Shrine of the Báb, a gold-domed structure that is the final resting place of the Báb. The Shrine is the focal point of the gardens, and its golden dome is visible from many parts of the city.
Visiting the Baháʼí Gardens
So visitors to the Baháʼí Gardens can take a guided tour or explore the terraces on their own. The gardens are open to the public year-round, and admission is free. However, visitors are asked to respect the spiritual significance of the site and to dress modestly.
The Baháʼí Faith
So the Baháʼí Gardens in Haifa are not only a beautiful example of landscape architecture but also a symbol of the Baháʼí Faith’s emphasis on the harmony of the physical and spiritual worlds. They are a testament to the faith’s commitment to beauty, unity, and the betterment of humanity.
Credit: Marco Abrar, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons
In conclusion, the Baháʼí Gardens in Haifa are a stunning example of landscape architecture and a significant pilgrimage site for Baháʼís around the world. They symbolize the Baháʼí Faith’s commitment to beauty, unity, and harmony of the physical and spiritual worlds. Whether you are a Baháʼí or simply a lover of beautiful gardens, a visit to the Baháʼí Gardens in Haifa is a truly unforgettable experience.
Bahai Gardens Visiting Hours:
In Haifa
Guided Tours by Reservation Only Wednesday to Sunday
Self-guided Visit 09:00 – 17:00 Wednesday to Sunday
In Akko
Guided Tours by Reservation Only Friday to Sunday
Self-guided Visit 09:00 – 16:00 Thursday to Sunday
Tours for groups of 20 or greater:
Go to their website! And you’ll need to fill out a form!
Notice: The Bahá’í Gardens will be closed
6 – 7 November
21 – 28 November
29 December – 6 January