Akko: Exploring the world of the Knights Templars

This is part 2 of a series about Akko. Honestly, we didn't have enough time while we were there to see everything, so I can't wait to go back. That's the great thing about studying here—I can really take my time and savor everything about this incredible country!

As I said last week, Akko is one of the most continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back to 3,000 BC. And, as with many ancient cities, whenever a civilization came through and conquered one, they built right on top of the old. So there are layers upon layers of archeological treasure there, likely still to be explored!

One of the coolest things we did was walk through the underground tunnels and the world of the Knights Templars. We were literally walking the streets, looking at homes, seeing the hospital, church, and the great hall—all underground! 

And there was one place where they dug past the foundation and found the remains of a building of the civilization before the Crusaders! 

The tour itself was very interactive. There was translation available in many different languages, as well as signs written in Hebrew, Arabic, and English. It was everything from looking at artifacts to walking the tunnels and rooms, watching video reels projected onto stone walls, even playing games just like the ones people of the time would have played. 

It was SO COOL and made this history nerd SO HAPPY!

If you are ever in Northern Israel, I highly recommend a day at Akko. Or more than one. I know I will need to go back!