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Sebastia Archaeological Park

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Sebastia Archaeological Park (Palestinian Territories)

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Sebastia, the site of ancient Samaria, stands on a prominent hill northwest of Nablus, preserving archaeological layers spanning nearly three millennia. Founded in the 9th century BC by King Omri of Israel, the city reached a new peak under Herod the Great, who renamed it Sebaste in honor of Emperor Augustus. Today, the archaeological park features the remains of a vast Roman forum, a civic basilica, and a colonnaded street stretching over 800 meters with hundreds of limestone columns still standing. A major focal point is the Byzantine church dedicated to John the Baptist, later rebuilt by the Crusaders in the 12th century. Local Christian and Muslim traditions identify this as the burial place of the Baptist's head. The site has a unique opportunity to walk through Iron Age palace foundations and Roman urban infrastructure while overlooking the terraced olive groves of the surrounding landscape.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C131315182225272726241915
Rain mm118884723711121857104

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Sebastia Archaeological Park is a fenced site that can be visited for a small fee. The park displays the remains of the ancient city of Samaria.
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Typical hours
The park is typically open from sunrise to sunset. Access may be limited on holidays.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the park, but without flash indoors. The Roman columns and theater are particularly photogenic.
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Time needed
Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the park at leisure. An audio guide or tour takes about 90 minutes.
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Combine with
Combine the visit with the free ruins of Sebastia outside the park. The nearby village of Sebastia also gives traditional hospitality.
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Getting there
The park is right at the entrance of Sebastia village and is well signposted. Parking is available near the entrance.
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Insider tip
Visit the park early in the morning to avoid crowds. Bring enough water as there are no drink stalls inside.

Geography

Coordinates
32.27640, 35.19720

Facts

  • Founded in the 9th century BC by King Omri
  • Renamed by Herod the Great in honor of Augustus
  • The colonnaded street was originally over 800 meters long
  • Includes the remains of a Byzantine basilica
  • Traditional site of the tomb of John the Baptist
  • The Roman theater could seat approximately 3,000 people

Explore nearby

Notable places around

SebastiaSebastia<1 km · SExplore →
Jaba' Throne VillageJaba' Throne Village4 km · NEExplore →
Nablus Furniture IndustryNablus Furniture Industry7 km · NWExplore →
Jaba'Jaba'7 km · NEExplore →
Mount EbalMount Ebal8 km · NWExplore →
Wadi ShairWadi Shair9 km · SExplore →
Marj SanurMarj Sanur9 km · NEExplore →
Mount SalmanMount Salman9 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Sebastia Archaeological Park (4)

Sebastia Museum🏛 museum

This museum displays archaeological artifacts from the Roman and Byzantine periods of the ancient city of Samaria.

Omar Ibn Al 'as📍 landmark

A local Muslim place of worship named after the famous companion of the prophet.

east mosque📍 landmark

A traditional mosque situated in the eastern part of the village of Sebastia.

Al-Noor Mosque📍 landmark

A modern mosque in the village of Sebastia, serving as a religious gathering point for the community.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is there to see in Sebastia?
You can see ancient Roman ruins, including a theater, colonnaded streets, and temple remains.
How long does a visit take?
Plan for about 1 to 2 hours for a leisurely walk through the expansive grounds.
Is the site good for families?
Yes, it's a great place for walking around, but keep an eye on children near the ruins.
Do you need sturdy footwear?
Yes, as the ground is often uneven and rocky, comfortable walking shoes are advised.
Is there parking available?
Yes, there are options for parking vehicles safely near the entrance area.
Sebastia Archaeological Park: where is it located?
Sebastia Archaeological Park is located in Palestinian Territories.
Sebastia Archaeological Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sebastia Museum, Omar Ibn Al 'as, east mosque.
Sebastia Archaeological Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Sebastia Archaeological Park: why is it worth visiting?
Sebastia, the site of ancient Samaria, stands on a prominent hill northwest of Nablus, preserving archaeological layers spanning nearly three millennia.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

East Jerusalem — Sebastia Archaeological Park (Palestinian Territories)
East Jerusalem
East Jerusalem includes the Old City and major religious sites such as the Dome of the Rock.
Nablus — Sebastia Archaeological Park (Palestinian Territories)
Nablus
Nablus is situated between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim and is famous for its traditional soap production.
Nablus Old City — Sebastia Archaeological Park (Palestinian Territories)
Nablus Old City
The Old City is famous for its historic market and traditional soap factories.
Tulkarm — Sebastia Archaeological Park (Palestinian Territories)
Tulkarm
Tulkarm is located in the northwest West Bank on the edge of the Sharon plain.
Ramallah — Sebastia Archaeological Park (Palestinian Territories)
Ramallah
Ramallah is the political and economic administrative center of the West Bank.
Qalqilya — Sebastia Archaeological Park (Palestinian Territories)
Qalqilya
Qalqilya is a city in the West Bank almost entirely surrounded by the separation barrier.
Al-Bireh — Sebastia Archaeological Park (Palestinian Territories)
Al-Bireh
Al-Bireh is adjacent to Ramallah, forming a continuous urban area.
Jenin — Sebastia Archaeological Park (Palestinian Territories)
Jenin
Jenin is a historic city in the northern West Bank at the southern edge of the Jezreel Valley.
Al-Ram — Sebastia Archaeological Park (Palestinian Territories)
Al-Ram
Al-Ram is located north of Jerusalem and is a busy commercial and residential area.
Jericho — Sebastia Archaeological Park (Palestinian Territories)
Jericho
Jericho is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, located deep below sea level.
Qabatiya — Sebastia Archaeological Park (Palestinian Territories)
Qabatiya
Qabatiya is located south of Jenin and is a major center for the extraction and processing of natural stone.
Al-Eizariya — Sebastia Archaeological Park (Palestinian Territories)
Al-Eizariya
Al-Eizariya is historically known as Bethany and is located on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives.
Beit Jala — Sebastia Archaeological Park (Palestinian Territories)
Beit Jala
Beit Jala is a predominantly Christian town west of Bethlehem.
Al-Yamun — Sebastia Archaeological Park (Palestinian Territories)
Al-Yamun
Al-Yamun is located northwest of Jenin and is known for its olive cultivation and rich history.
Tubas — Sebastia Archaeological Park (Palestinian Territories)
Tubas
Tubas is in the northeastern West Bank overlooking the Jordan Valley.

History & landmarks

Old City of Ramallah — Sebastia Archaeological Park (Palestinian Territories)
Old City of Ramallah
The historical center of Ramallah preserves many Ottoman-era stone houses and serves as a vibrant cultural hub.