BAHÁ’Í WORLD CENTRE — As the 13th International Bahá’í Convention approaches, delegates from around the world have been immersing themselves in the spiritual atmosphere of the Bahá’í Holy Places. These visits to sites intimately connected with the lives of Bahá’u’lláh and ‘Abdu’l-Bahá are providing delegates with the special opportunity to prepare for their sacred duty: to elect the Universal House of Justice.

The following images offer a glimpse into the moving experiences shared by the delegates as they journey through the ‘Akká/Haifa area visiting Bahá’í Holy Places.

Prison Cell of Bahá’u’lláh
Bahá’u’lláh and His family were incarcerated in the northwestern wing of this citadel in ‘Akká for more than two years from 1868 to 1870. It was here that Bahá’u’lláh revealed historic works that called upon humanity to work for the building of a just global civilization founded on the oneness of humankind.

House of ‘Abbúd
As exiles and under house arrest, Bahá’u’lláh and His family arrived at this building in 1871 and lived in extremely cramped conditions for some time. In 1873, Bahá’u’lláh revealed His Most Holy Book, the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, at this sacred site.

Mansion of Mazra‘ih
In early June 1877, after nine years of confinement within the walls of the prison-city of ‘Akká, Bahá’u’lláh, and members of His family took up residence at Mazra‘ih, where He received visitors and penned many tablets.

House of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
This is the house where ‘Abdu’l-Bahá resided in the last years of His life and where He passed away in the early hours of 28 November 1921. More than 10,000 people attended ‘Abdu’l-Bahá’s funeral the day after His passing.

Site of the Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá
Delegates had the opportunity to visit the construction site of the future Shrine of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá. In 2019, work began on this site, which is adjacent to the Riḍván Garden in ‘Akká.

International Archives Building
The International Archives Building contains historical artefacts and precious relics associated with the Central Figures and early years of the Bahá’í Faith.