About this place
Overview and significance
The German Colony is an area of Haifa established in 1868 as a Christian German Templer Colony in Ottoman Palestine. It was the first of several colonies established by the group in the Holy Land. Others were founded in Sarona near Jaffa, Galilee and Jerusalem. Some of the original buildings are still surviving today, and the area continues to be visited, lived in, and in use.
History and heritage
Its historical story is also significant: it was the first of several colonies established by the group in the Holy Land. Its historical story is also significant: others were founded in Sarona near Jaffa, Galilee and Jerusalem. Its historical story is also significant: the Templers, a religious Protestant sect formed in southern Germany in the 19th century, settled in Palestine at the urging of their leader, Christoph Hoffmann, in the belief that living in the Holy Land would hasten the second coming of Christ.
Features and attractions
Among its defining features, the Templers built a colony in keeping with strict urban planning principles and introduced local industries that brought modernity to Palestine, which had long been neglected by the Ottomans.
Activities and experiences
Experiences depend on season, access and available guides. Sightseeing, photography and locally organised activities are typical starting points; confirm availability before travel.
Visitor information
For visitor planning, they were the first to organize regular transportation services between Jaffa, Acre and Nazareth, which also allowed for mail delivery.
This editorial information is a starting guide. Verify current visitor rules, fees and access with the official operator.