Timeless Charms of the Old City of Acre

• Helloשלום
  [Shalom]
• Goodbyeלהתראות
  [Lehitraot]
• Yesכן
  [Ken]
• Noלא
  [Lo]
• Please/You're welcomeבבקשה
  [Bevakasha]
• Thank youתודה
  [Toda]
• Excuse me/Sorryסליחה
  [Slicha]
• How are you??איך אתה
  [Eich Ata]
• Fine. And you?טוב. ואתה?
  [Tov. Ve'ata?]
• Do you speak English?האם אתה מדבר אנגלית?
  [Ha'Im Ata Medaber Anglit?]
• I don't understandאני לא מבין
  [Ani Lo Mevin]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseאני רוצה לראות את התפריט, בבקשה
  [Ani Rotzeh La'rot Et Ha'tafrir, Bevakasha]
• I don't eat meatאני לא אוכל בשר
  [Ani Lo Ochel Basar]
• Cheers!לחיים!
  [Lechayim!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseאני רוצה לשלם, בבקשה
  [Ani Rotzeh Leshalem, Bevakasha]

• Help!עזרה!
  [Ezra!]
• Go away!לך לעברך!
  [Lech Le'abarech!]
• Call the Police!קרא למשטרה!
  [Kara La'mishtara!]
• Call a doctor!קרא לרופא!
  [Kara La'rofe!]
• I'm lostאני אבוד
  [Ani Avud]
• I'm illאני חולה
  [Ani Choleh]

• I'd like to buy...אני רוצה לקנות...
  [Ani Rotzeh Liknot...]
• I'm just lookingאני רק רואה
  [Ani Rak Ro'eh]
• How much is it?כמה עולה זה?
  [Kama Oleh Zeh?]
• That's too expensiveזה יקר מדי
  [Zeh Yakar M'odi]
• Can you lower the price?אפשר להוריד את המחיר?
  [Efshar Lehored Et Ha'machir?]

• What time is it?מה השעה?
  [Ma Ha'sha'a?]
• It's one o'clockהשעה אחת
  [Ha'sha'a Achat]
• Half past (10)חצי (עשר)
  [Chatzi (Eser)]
• Morningבוקר
  [Boker]
• Afternoonצהריים
  [Tzohorayim]
• Eveningערב
  [Erev]
• Yesterdayאתמול
  [Etmol]
• Todayהיום
  [Ha'yom]
• Tomorrowמחר
  [Mahar]
• 1אחת
  [Achat]
• 2שתיים
  [Shtayim]
• 3שלוש
  [Shalosh]
• 4ארבע
  [Arba]
• 5חמש
  [Chamesh]
• 6שש
  [Shesh]
• 7שבע
  [Sheva]
• 8שמונה
  [Shmona]
• 9תשע
  [Tisha]
• 10עשר
  [Eser]

• Where's a/the...?איפה נמצא...
  [Eifo Nimtza...]
• What's the address?מה הכתובת?
  [Ma Ha'ktovet?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?אתה יכול להראות לי (על המפה)?
  [Ata Yachol Lehare'ot Li (Al Ha'mapa)?]
• When's the next (bus)?מתי האוטובוס הבא?
  [Matay Ha'otobus Ha'ba?]
• A ticket (to ....)כרטיס (ל...)
  [Kartis (L...)]

The Old City of Acre's history dates back to ancient times, with its origins as a Phoenician port city known as Akko. Established around 3000 BCE, it was an important center for trade and commerce in the Eastern Mediterranean. The strategic location of Acre made it a vital port for the Phoenicians, who were renowned for their maritime prowess and trade networks.

Acre became a significant stronghold during the Crusades in the 12th century. Following the capture by the Crusaders in 1104, it served as the capital of the Kingdom of Jerusalem and a key military and trade hub. The construction of impressive fortifications, including the famous Crusader Citadel, marked this period, with the city thriving as a melting pot of cultures and religions.

In 1517, Acre fell under Ottoman rule, leading to a new era of development. The Ottomans significantly enhanced the city's fortifications and infrastructure. Notable structures from this period include the Al-Jazzar Mosque and the impressive walls that still stand today. The Old City flourished as a center of administration and trade, reflecting the cultural and architectural influences of the Ottoman Empire.

During the British Mandate from 1920 to 1948, Acre underwent various changes aimed at modernization. The British invested in infrastructure and expanded the city's port facilities. However, the period was also marked by growing tensions between Jewish and Arab communities, leading to significant historical events, including the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, which altered the demographic and cultural landscape of Acre.

In recent decades, Acre has been recognized for its rich cultural heritage, resulting in efforts to preserve its historical sites. The Old City was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, emphasizing its importance as a crossroads of civilizations. Today, it attracts tourists who come to explore its ancient streets, vibrant markets, and diverse cultural offerings, showcasing the area's complex history and multicultural identity.

The Old City of Acre is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Acre. If you are arriving from the main bus station in Acre, local buses (lines 1 and 2) will take you directly to the Old City. Alternatively, taxis are available and are a convenient option for a quick trip. If you are traveling from Haifa, there are frequent trains to Acre Station, followed by a short taxi ride or a 30-minute walk to reach the Old City.

The Old City of Acre is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it ideal for exploring on foot. Narrow alleys and streets are best navigated by walking. Bicycles can also be rented from local shops if you wish to explore the coastal area. While there are no trains within the Old City, local buses connect to other parts of Acre. Taxis are readily available for longer distances or to return to the bus station.

Old City of Acre is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep personal belongings secure. While most areas are safe, it's advisable to be cautious around the outskirts of the Old City, especially near the port area at night, as petty crime can occasionally occur. Always stay aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 100 for police, 101 for medical assistance, and 102 for fire services. The nearest hospital is located a short taxi ride away in Acre. It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers emergency situations. There are pharmacies in the Old City for minor health issues, and most locals can direct you to the nearest hospital or clinic if needed.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When entering religious sites, dress conservatively and be prepared to cover your head if necessary. Public Transport: Do be courteous, and give up your seat for the elderly. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Shalom' and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes at restaurants, and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.

To truly experience the Old City of Acre like a local, visit the bustling markets, where you can find fresh produce and traditional foods. Engage with local vendors and ask for recommendations on what to try. Attend a local cultural event or festival if your visit coincides with one. Explore beyond the main tourist sites; hidden gems like local art galleries and small cafés provide an authentic experience. For a unique perspective, consider a guided tour that includes stories of Acre's rich history.