Overview
Caesarea Maritima combines Roman ruins, a Mediterranean harbour and some of the most important New Testament history outside Jerusalem.
Biblical significance
Philip the evangelist lived here. Peter preached to Cornelius in Caesarea, one of the decisive moments in the inclusion of Gentiles in the church. Paul was later imprisoned here before appealing to Caesar and sailing for Rome.
Historical background
Herod the Great developed Caesarea into a major Roman city and deep-water harbour. Its remains include a theatre, hippodrome, palace structures, aqueducts and later Crusader fortifications.
What you will see
The Roman theatre, coastal ruins, Herodian harbour area, hippodrome, archaeological remains and Mediterranean views.