Old City of Acre Revives with Food, Art, and Cultural Events After Years of Turmoil
The ancient alleys of Acre (Akko) are gradually coming back to life following years marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, violent unrest, and prolonged conflict. While the city still has a way to go before regaining its former glory, local residents, both Arab and Jewish, entrepreneurs, municipal officials, and tourism organizations are working tirelessly to attract Israeli tourists back to this historic coastal city known for its sea views, rich history, vibrant culinary scene, and picturesque alleys.
A highlight of the cultural revival is the "Nisha" gallery located in a beautiful arched building in the Old City. The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions of local artists and also serves as a tourism information center for Western Galilee, supported by JNF USA. Currently featured is sculptor Yael Nathaniel’s exhibition "Hidden Garden," which includes sculptures of women crafted from a mix of hard and soft materials, displayed uniquely on satellite dishes alongside her poetry. The gallery building was damaged during the 2021 "Guardian of the Walls" clashes but was restored with help from Arab residents who saved the artworks.
Culinary experiences are flourishing as well, exemplified by the "Turquoise" restaurant nestled in one of the market alleys. Run by Samir Saadi and his wife, the kitchen offers a blend of familiar Levantine dishes such as tabbouleh, fattoush, hummus, and specialties like a festive mansaf with tender lamb shoulder, stuffed cabbage, fresh okra in tomato sauce, and freshly baked fish from the nearby sea. The meal traditionally ends with warm knafeh, a beloved local dessert.
The city also launched two new evening cultural initiatives this summer. One is a captivating light and sound show projected onto the walls of the Crusader fortress, bringing Acre’s long history to life as sea breezes carry the sounds and colors. The other is "The Peninsula," a musical project organized by boutique hotels and local cultural groups, featuring live performances every Thursday evening in various historic locations, including the lighthouse complex and Khan al-Shawarda.
Accommodation options have expanded with the boutique Akotika Hotel, where owners Tamar and Meir Davidson relocated to Acre to start a new chapter. They renovated historic buildings into elegant suites scattered throughout the Old City, offering visitors a unique blend of Mediterranean charm reminiscent of Spain or southern France. Initially met with some local skepticism, the couple says neighbors have come to appreciate their shared goal of the city’s success.
These combined efforts in art, cuisine, culture, and hospitality are helping Acre reestablish itself as a vibrant destination for Israeli tourists and beyond, signaling a hopeful future after challenging years.
