Khan al-Umdan Acre
A historic Ottoman merchant inn in Acre, famed for its colonnaded courtyard and iconic clock tower, currently undergoing renovations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
See the iconic clock tower
Khan al-Umdan Acre
Best Time
See the iconic clock tower
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Ottoman merchant inn in Acre, famed for its colonnaded courtyard and iconic clock tower, currently undergoing renovations.
"Iconic clock tower in Akko from Ottoman era. It's already been more than 2 years I've been waiting for it to be reopened."
Verify Opening Status
Confirm if Khan al-Umdan is open before your visit, as it has been closed for renovations for a long time.
Admire from Outside
Even when closed, the exterior architecture and clock tower are impressive.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Clock Tower
Exterior view
An iconic Ottoman-era landmark, this clock tower is a prominent feature of Acre's skyline.
Colonnaded Courtyard
Exterior view
Imagine the bustling trade of centuries past within this impressive, arcaded central courtyard.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Check Reopening Status
Exterior Views & Nearby Attractions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Verify Opening Status
Confirm if Khan al-Umdan is open before your visit, as it has been closed for renovations for a long time.
Admire from Outside
Even when closed, the exterior architecture and clock tower are impressive.
Explore Old Acre
Combine your visit with other historical sites in the UNESCO World Heritage Old City.
Tips
from all over the internet
Verify Opening Status
Confirm if Khan al-Umdan is open before your visit, as it has been closed for renovations for a long time.
Admire from Outside
Even when closed, the exterior architecture and clock tower are impressive.
Explore Old Acre
Combine your visit with other historical sites in the UNESCO World Heritage Old City.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are eager for Khan al-Umdan to reopen after extensive renovations, with many recalling its past charm. While the exterior, particularly the clock tower, remains an impressive sight, the prolonged closure is a significant disappointment for those hoping to explore its interior and courtyard.
"Iconic clock tower in Akko from Ottoman era."
Kaz
"5 stars, yes, but it is closed, still closed for renovation, can't wait for it to reopen.
It's already been more than 2 years I've been waiting for it to be reopened.
Let's hope 2023 will be the year.
And then it will be stunning.
I've been there several times in the past when it was opened and it was already very special.
The waiting will be worth it."
Dan M
"It is good place, but I don't know if it is worth to visit"
Müslüm Gök
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Khan al-Umdan is located in the heart of the Old City of Acre. If you're driving, park outside the Old City walls and walk in. Public transport options include buses that stop near the Old City entrance. Once inside, it's a short walk through the charming alleys.
There is no parking directly at Khan al-Umdan as it's within the pedestrianized Old City. Several paid parking lots are available just outside the Old City walls, which are a short walk away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Unfortunately, Khan al-Umdan has been closed for extensive renovations for a significant period. It's crucial to check the latest status before your visit, as many recent reviews indicate it remains inaccessible. +1
Information on admission fees is not currently available due to the ongoing closure. In the past, there was an entrance fee, and guided tours with headsets were recommended for a full experience.
As the site is currently closed for renovations, there are no set opening hours. Please verify the reopening date and hours with official sources closer to your planned visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Even when closed, you can admire the impressive exterior architecture, including the grand clock tower and the colonnaded courtyard from the outside. Peeking through the fence offers a glimpse of its historical grandeur.
Khan al-Umdan, meaning 'Inn of the Pillars,' was a vital merchant inn built in the late 1700s. It served as a resting place and trading hub for travelers and merchants, showcasing Ottoman-era architecture.
While guided tours were previously available and recommended for a deeper understanding, they are not currently offered due to the closure. Check for updates on tour availability upon its reopening.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunity is the grand clock tower. The colonnaded courtyard, when visible, also offers excellent architectural shots. Capture the scale and historical atmosphere from various angles outside the entrance.
Photography rules would typically apply once the site reopens. Historically, interior photography was often permitted, but it's best to confirm on-site or with official information upon reopening.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Enthusiasts
While the interior is currently inaccessible, researching the history of merchant inns (khans) and their role in trade routes can enhance your appreciation. Consider visiting other historical sites in Acre like the Knights' Halls or the Templar Tunnel to complement your understanding of the region's layered past.
Day-Trippers from Tel Aviv/Haifa
Prioritize checking the opening status of Khan al-Umdan before your trip. If it remains closed, focus your time on the many other accessible historical attractions within the Old City, such as the Knights' Halls and the vibrant market. Enjoy the unique atmosphere and delicious local cuisine Acre has to offer.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Merchant's Inn
While currently closed for renovations, the grand clock tower that crowns Khan al-Umdan is an unmistakable landmark. Erected in 1906, it was a symbol of modernity and Ottoman authority, adding a distinctive silhouette to Acre's skyline. The inn's very name, 'Khan al-Umdan,' translates to 'Inn of the Pillars,' a direct reference to the numerous columns that define its courtyard and arcade. This historical context is vital for appreciating the site's significance beyond its physical structure.
Many visitors express anticipation for its reopening, recalling its past splendor. The hope is that the renovations will preserve its historical integrity while making it accessible once more for exploration. Until then, its exterior remains a powerful reminder of Acre's historical importance as a trading and cultural crossroads.
Navigating Acre's Old City
Getting to the Old City is straightforward. If arriving by car, you'll need to park in designated lots outside the walls and then proceed on foot. Public transportation, such as buses, will typically drop you off near the entrance to the Old City. Once inside, navigating is best done by simply wandering and soaking in the atmosphere, though maps are available if you prefer a more structured approach.
Beyond Khan al-Umdan, the Old City boasts numerous other attractions, including the Knights' Halls, the Templar Tunnel, the Al-Jazzar Mosque, and the bustling Acre Market. It's recommended to allocate ample time to explore these sites, perhaps even considering an audio guide or a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical narratives embedded within the ancient stones.
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