What Happened at Caesarea?

Pronounced Kay-SAR-Ree-Uh by the locals, the town of Caesarea is home to Caesarea National Park, the place of the ancient ruins of the Roman seaside port built by King Herod, a magnificent builder who turned it into the headquarters of the Northern coast of Israel. 

Biblically and Historically Speaking. 

The first gentile convert to Christianity happened at Caesarea. Remember Cornelius, the Roman centurion guard? (Acts 10).  It was from this port that Rabbi Paul set sail to share the Kingdom message in communities all over the Mediterranean, and where he was later imprisoned for two years and made his powerful speech before Felix, Festus, and King Agrippa (Acts 12-25:6).

Conquest after conquest, from the Crusaders to the Muslims, Caesarea has gone through the hands of tyrannic forces over and over, finally ending in the hands of it's rightful owners, the Jews.

Along the gorgeous beach is a large hippodrome where Roman chariot races were held.

This hippodrome also has an amphitheater where history records that both Christians and Jews were fed to the lions.  Thankfully, now that Caesarea is back in the hands of the Jews, today the amphitheater is used for life giving purposes like concerts and events. 

One of the most impressive aspects of Caesarea are the Aqueducts that can be seen along Caesarea's shore that led water from nearby springs to the city. 

Fast Forward To Today

Today, this Mediterranean treasure offers adventure, history and culinary delights. Dotted with art galleries, boutiques, and some of Israel’s finest restaurants alongside the archeological remains, make Caesarea a must visit. It is also home to Israel's finest golf course and Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu's weekend home. 

Speaking of restaurants...(my love language), I like to bring my groups to Helena's. With stunning views of the Mediterranean and the menu curated by the famous Chef Uri Buri, Helena's will wow you and leave you wanting more. 

Helena's: tables with a magnificent view of the Mediterranean

    

And the dreamy sun sets on the horizon of the Mediterranean Sea - postcard views! 

There's More

Also nestled in a Caesarea neighborhood is a home where I like to take my groups to cook for and eat with Holocaust Survivors. A deeply moving experience. Click here to read about it and a bit of Texas history in helping Holocaust Survivors.