Bahá'í World Centre

The Bahá'í World Centre is a religious administrative site in Haifa that includes a shrine topped with a golden dome and nineteen stepped garden terraces running down Mount Carmel's northern slope. The buildings and gardens span several levels and accommodate visitors and followers from around the world.

The centre was established at this location because a key religious leader was exiled to the Acre prison in 1868 and remained there until his death. The place later became the administrative headquarters of the Bahá'í movement and a spiritual home for its followers.

The Bahá'í faithful visit the shrines and gardens as places of pilgrimage and personal reflection, while the site represents their teachings of unity and spiritual growth. Visitors from many countries and backgrounds come to understand the location's meaning within the Bahá'í community.

The Shrine of the Báb is open to visitors and attracts thousands of pilgrims each year who wish to see the sacred sites. The garden terraces are well-accessible and offer views of the city and sea, so wearing comfortable shoes is advised as the visit involves walking.

The centre's administration follows an unusual rule: they do not actively teach their faith to local Israeli residents. This sets their approach apart from many other religious organizations that typically spread their teachings.