Caesarea: Rome's capital on the Mediterranean

Caesarea Maritima sits on Israel's Mediterranean coast, about halfway between Tel Aviv and Haifa. Built by Herod the Great over 12 years (25–13 BC), it was the most technologically advanced port in the ancient world — with an artificial harbor, aqueduct, hippodrome, and a theater that seated 4,000.

For Christians, Caesarea's significance is immense. This is where the Roman centurion Cornelius became the first Gentile convert (Acts 10), where Philip the Evangelist settled, and where Paul was imprisoned for two years before his voyage to Rome (Acts 23–26). Standing in the ruins of the governor's palace where Paul gave his defense is a spine-tingling experience.

The site is beautifully maintained as a national park. Walk the aqueduct along the beach, explore the crusader city, and sit in the Roman theater where performances are still held today. Allow 2–3 hours for a thorough visit. Most groups stop here on the first or last day as it's conveniently located between Tel Aviv and the Galilee.