Caesarea Travel

History of Caesarea:

This area has had a long and checkered history. Caesarea was originally called Straton's Tower after its founder Straton, who is believed to have been a ruler of Sidon in the 4th century BCE.   In 96 BCE the city was captured by Alexander Yannai and remained in the Hasmonean Kingdom until it became an autonomous city by Pompey.  The city underwent a great number of changes under Herod, who among other things renamed it Caesarea in honor of the Emperor.  In 22 BCE he began construction of a deep sea harbor, temples, baths, storerooms as well as building an aqueduct, hippodrome and magnificent amphitheater that remain standing today.   The population was half Gentile and half Jewish, often causing disputes among the residents.  In 6 CE. Caesarea became the home of the Roman Governors of Judea.  Caesarea was also the site where the Romans tortured and executed Rabbi Akiva following the Bar Kochba revolt in 135 CE.   Caesarea is an important site in Christian History. It was the place where Pontius Pilate governed during the time of Jesus.  In the 4th century, Caesarea converted to Christianity and became a major center of the Christian Roman Empire.  The Crusaders captured Caesarea during the First Crusade.  Godfrey of Bouillon charged the residents heavy taxes, who soon rose up in protest and in 1101 he pillaged the city and slaughtered its residents.  In 1251, Louis IV fortified the city with the construction of high walls and a deep moat but in 1265 Caesarea fell to the Royal Sultan Baybars who destroyed the City. Caesarea remained in ruins until 1884 when a small fishing village was established on its remains by Muslim refugees from Bosnia.   The City was abandoned during the War of Independence until Baron Benjamin de Rothschild purchased tens of thousands of acres of land surrounding Caesarea.

Caesarea Excavations:

The Byzantine-period Street lies east of the entrance to the Crusader City, with tamarisk trees all around.   In Herod's time, the Caesarea Port was considered one of the most modern in the world.   With time, the port sank to a depth of five meters below sea level.   Behind the Port, Herod constructed arched storehouses which are quite well preserved as are the Public Bath-Houses with its beautiful mosaic floors.   Above the storehouses is the Temple to Augustus Caesar and Rome.    Vestiges of the Crusaders Fortress Walls are monuments to a fascinating period in Israel's History.  The Amphitheater is not only a spectacular relic of the past but a modern performing venue where concerts are frequently held. It is located to the very south of the city and is the earliest of the roman entertainment facilities built in Herod's Kingdom. The Theater, seated about 15,000 spectators and its shape and dimensions indicate that it was used for racing horses and chariot races.  The Aqueduct provided an abundant supply of water was built in the Herodian period.

What to see in Caesarea:

Caesarea Harbor is full of a variety of cafes, restaurants, and small shops selling arts and crafts.   This is one of the most beautiful spots to enjoy a meal overlooking the sea and the archaeological remains.  One of the prettiest beaches can be found just below the harbor walls boasting all modern beach amenities.  A new promenade has been built between the Harbor and the Amphitheater.

The Caesarea Experience

 

This fascinating cinematic exhibition will take you though the fascinating history of Caesarea.  It is a historical experience taking you back in time through the Herodian Era to the Roman Era, the Byzantine Era, the Arab and Crusader Eras all the way to the early days of Zionism and the settlement project of Baron de Rothschild. After completing the Caesarea Experience, come face-to-face with historical figures that shared in the history of Caesarea.  This interactive project uses state-of-the-art technology and three-dimensional figures create a distinct experience.  Meet King Herod, Rabbi Akiva and many more important figures and have the opportunity of asking them questions and receive their answers.

A new Underwater Archaeological Park in Caesarea has been opened for both amateur and professional divers.   The park includes four diving complexes with 25 stops reflecting the wonders of Roman naval engineering during Caesarea's 2000 years of existence.   The sunken harbor includes remnants of basins, breakwaters, loading piers, storage rooms, a promenade and a lighthouse.  Wrecked ships, cargos and ancient anchors have been discovered on the seabed.  The first route is intended for amateur divers who will be able to tour it with snorkeling equipment and the other three routes require professional diving equipment.

Other archaeological finds can be seen at the Museum at the nearby Kibbutz Sdot Yam.  In addition to antiquities, the Kibbutz is also the home of the Hannah Senesh House, a museum depicting the heroic story of the young woman who volunteered for the British Army and parachuted behind enemy lines during World II.   Senesh was captured, tortured and executed by the Germans in 1944.

Caesarea Leisure

The Caesarea Golf Club is the only 18 hole of PGA standard golf course in Israel.  The course measures more than 20,000 feet and is scattered with ancient Roman antiquities.
 
In a magical estate, surrounded by a flowering garden, bordering on a wood and in walking distance to the beach is the Caesarea Spa.  Enjoy professional pampering in luxurious surroundings