Baháʼí World Centre buildings, Haifa

The Baháʼí World Centre buildings are an architectural and spiritual beacon in the city of Haifa, Israel. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Carmel, this site is not only a place of pilgrimage for the followers of the Baháʼí Faith but also a stunning tourist attraction recognized for its serene beauty and cultural significance.

The centerpieces of the Baháʼí World Centre are the majestic Shrine of the Báb and the surrounding terraced gardens. The Shrine, with its iconic golden dome, serves as the final resting place of the Báb, the herald of the Baháʼí Faith. The terraces, extending about a kilometer up the mountain, provide a tranquil and immaculate backdrop, inviting visitors to reflect and meditate.

Completed in 2001, the terraced gardens are a marvel of landscape architecture. With 19 terraces, they represent the first 18 disciples of the Báb and the Báb himself. The gardens are a symphony of geometric patterns, vibrant flowers, and meticulously maintained greenery, punctuated by fountains and pathways that lead the eye towards the Shrine.

The Baháʼí World Centre buildings also include the Universal House of Justice, which is the governing body of the Baháʼí Faith, and the International Teaching Centre, both of which feature impressive architectural designs that complement the spiritual and administrative purposes of the site.

The site has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which highlights its importance and ensures its preservation for future generations. Visitors from all over the world are drawn to the Baháʼí gardens and buildings for their beauty, their peaceful ambiance, and the sense of unity and inclusivity they promote.

Open to the public, the Baháʼí World Centre offers guided tours that provide insights into the history and teachings of the Baháʼí Faith. The gardens can be visited during daylight hours, and the Shrine of the Báb is accessible to pilgrims and visitors alike, although hours may vary for holy days and special occasions.