On Saturday 21 November, the École biblique et archéologique française de Jérusalem invites you to discover Apollonia–Arsuf and Caesarea Maritima. This visit is open to everyone. It will be led by lecturers and researchers of the École and by Dominican friars of the Convent of Saint Stephen, who will share their knowledge of the site, its history and its place in the Scriptures.
Apollonia–Arsuf, a city on the cliff
Perched on a sandstone cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, Apollonia is first recorded under this Greek name in the Persian period. Later known as Arsuf, it was fortified by the Crusaders: Richard the Lionheart defeated Saladin there in 1191, before Sultan Baybars destroyed the stronghold in 1265.
Caesarea, a city between two worlds
Founded by Herod the Great and endowed with a harbour built out into the sea, Caesarea became the seat of the Roman governors of Judea. There Peter baptised the centurion Cornelius (Acts 10), and Paul was held captive before appealing to Caesar (Acts 23–26). Origen taught there, Eusebius was its bishop, and the Crusader ramparts still stand today.
Practical information
- Date: Saturday 21 November
- Meeting point: 8 a.m. at the ÉBAF, 83-85 Nablus Road (Derekh Shekhem), Jerusalem. For those living closer to the coast, meet at 9.30-10.00 a.m. at Apollonia–Arsuf National Park (Herzliya).
- End of the visit: around 5.30 p.m.
- Lunch: please bring your own picnic.
- Registration: required, via this form
- Transport: everyone makes their own way there. Car-sharing is possible: say so in the form, and the École can help put you in touch.
We look forward to seeing many of you for this day of discovery!
To make these visits possible, the ÉBAF needs your support. Participation is by free-will offering.