During the Crusades, groups of religious hermits began to inhabit the caves of the Carmel District in emulation of Elijah the Prophet, whose life was strongly identified with this mountain. These monastic hermits were organized into the Carmelite order, which spread throughout Europe. However, the founders on the Carmel range were exiled at the end of the Crusades. The present Carmelite monastery and basilica dates from 1836. With a magnificent view of the sea, the entire ensemble of buildings, including the lighthouse, is known as “Stella Maris.” An earlier monastery complex on this site served as a hospital for Napoleon’s soldiers during his unsuccessful siege of Acre in 1799. The pyramid in front of the church is a memorial to the many abandoned French soldiers who were slaughtered by the Turks after Napoleon’s retreat. The church is a beautiful structure, with Italian marble so vividly patterned that visitors mistakenly think the walls have been painted. Colorful paintings on the dome, done by Brother Luigi Poggi (1924–28), depict episodes from the Old Testament, the most dramatic being the scene of Elijah swept up in a chariot of fire; the statue of the Virgin Mary, carved from cedar of Lebanon, is also notable. The cave, situated below the altar, is believed to have been inhabited by Elijah. From Stella Maris, Haifa’s little aerial cable car can take you down to the Bat Galim Beach Promenade, where you can walk in the Mediterranean or dine at waterfront eateries.
Haifa
Travel Guide
Haifa› Attraction
Stella Maris Lighthouse, Church and Carmelite Monastery
100 Stella Maris Rd
Nir Hoffman / Shutterstock
Our Rating
Hours
Daily 8am–noon and 3–6pm
Transportation
Bus 111, 112
Phone
04/833-7758
Prices
Free admission
Other
Modest dress required
Map
100 Stella Maris Rd HaifaNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.