Terra Sancta Church, Catholic church building in Old City, Acre, Israel
Terra Sancta Church is a Catholic church building in Acre's Old City, recognizable by its Gothic tower topped with a red spire. The structure sits among narrow streets and closely packed residential buildings, serving as a clear architectural landmark in the dense medieval quarter.
The church was built in 1673, but the site holds earlier Christian roots dating back to a monastery established in 1217. The structure replaces an older religious foundation and continues a tradition of Christian presence that spans more than 8 centuries.
The church marks a place where Christian worship has continued for centuries within a predominantly Muslim city. Visitors can observe how the building maintains its religious character while standing among the traditional architecture of the Old City.
The church sits north of Khan el-Faranj caravanserai and is accessible on foot through the narrow streets of the Old City. Visitors should dress respectfully since it remains an active place of worship with regular services.
The red spire stands out sharply against the surrounding minarets and traditional rooflines of the Old City. This bold coloring creates an unexpected visual accent that draws the eye even for visitors unfamiliar with the neighborhood.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.