Sebastia

The archaeological site of Sebastia, located near Nablus, is one of the most historically significant cities in the region, with a legacy spanning thousands of years. Known in antiquity as Samaria, it served as the capital of the northern Kingdom of Israel during the 9th century BCE. The monumental grandeur seen today is largely due to the massive reconstruction projects of Herod the Great, who renamed the city Sebaste in honor of Emperor Augustus. Visitors can walk along the impressive colonnaded street, explore the Roman forum, and see the ruins of a theater that speak to the city's ancient administrative power. Beyond the Roman remains, the site also holds traces of an Iron Age palace belonging to the Omrid dynasty. Sebastia is not merely an outdoor museum but a place where biblical narratives and classical architecture converge. Surrounded by terraced olive groves, the site provides a deep perspective into the cultural mosaic of the Levant, making it for anyone interested in the layers of Middle Eastern history.

Nearby cities

East Jerusalem

East Jerusalem includes the Old City and major religious sites such as the Dome of the Rock.

Nablus

Nablus is situated between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim and is famous for its traditional soap production.

Nablus Old City

The Old City is famous for its historic market and traditional soap factories.

Tulkarm

Tulkarm is located in the northwest West Bank on the edge of the Sharon plain.

Ramallah

Ramallah is the political and economic administrative center of the West Bank.

Qalqilya

Qalqilya is a city in the West Bank almost entirely surrounded by the separation barrier.

Al-Bireh

Al-Bireh is adjacent to Ramallah, forming a continuous urban area.

Jenin

Jenin is a historic city in the northern West Bank at the southern edge of the Jezreel Valley.

Al-Ram

Al-Ram is located north of Jerusalem and is a busy commercial and residential area.

Jericho

Jericho is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, located deep below sea level.

Qabatiya

Qabatiya is located south of Jenin and is a major center for the extraction and processing of natural stone.

Al-Eizariya

Al-Eizariya is historically known as Bethany and is located on the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives.

Beit Jala

Beit Jala is a predominantly Christian town west of Bethlehem.

Al-Yamun

Al-Yamun is located northwest of Jenin and is known for its olive cultivation and rich history.

Tubas

Tubas is in the northeastern West Bank overlooking the Jordan Valley.

History & landmarks

Old City of Ramallah

The historical center of Ramallah preserves many Ottoman-era stone houses and serves as a vibrant cultural hub.