Caesarea National Park

Caesarea National Park is just north of the central midway part of Israel along the Mediterranean coastline.  The national park encompasses an area around the city making one of the smaller national parks.

The ancient city of Caesarea Maritima was constructed during the reign of Herod the Great around 10-9 BCE.  The city was fortified by the Romans, early Christians, Muslims, and then again by Christian Crusaders.

The ruins include an amphitheater, a Roman aqueduct, the Herodian hippodrome, and much more.  One of the archaeological finds was a limestone block that featured an inscription noting Pilate.  Pilate is renowned for his part in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.  This is the only archaeological find featuring his name.

The ancient city ruins are surrounded by beautiful beaches that complement the stunning nature of the archaeological site.  There is also an underwater museum where visitors are able to dive and experience the ruins of the city which are underwater.

A museum is located within the park boundaries.  The museum is an excellent opportunity for history enthusiasts to explore and learn all of the significant history and changes that have occurred within the city over the years. Caesarea is the only place in the world where visitors can discover and explore the architectural handiwork of the Romans and how they engineered the port.

History of Caesarea spans from the days of King Herod the Great up through the Crusader period.

Photos

Caesarea National Park Photo Gallery

Highlights

The ruins of Caesarea are the highlight of the national park.  This historical and cultural iconic ancient city is an excellent glimpse into the architecture and mindset of Herod the Great.  This historical site is one of the more popular tourist attractions for Israel 

Caesarea National Park Trails

There are really not any trails associated with the national park.  There are plenty of places to walk around and roam about the ruins of the city.  However, there are some trails you may explore.

City Exploration

Meander around the city and check out the amphitheater and other ruins only take about half a day.  It is an easy stroll through a significant site of cultural history.

Port to Hippodrome Trail

This is a short easy rated trail only traveling 0.87-miles (1.40 km) while traveling along the shoreline out to the Hippodrome. This trail provides views of the waterways as well as the aspects of the city.  It is a comfortable stroll and accessible to everyone.

Observation Trail

This is a short easy hike of 0.55-mile (0.88 km) with a small bit of elevation change.  The short hike leads to a vista that allows hikers to look back out over the city and shoreline.

Beach Trail

This trail follows the shoreline and provides views of most of the cityscape facets.  It covers a distance of 1.36 miles (2.19 km) while allowing hikers to see most of the significant and lesser historical structures.

The Walls Trail:

This is a short 0.31-mile (0.49 km) trek that leads to various views of the historical structures as you explore the outline of the city.  This is easy and accessible to almost everyone.

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Park Protection

Caesarea National Park was established for cultural and historical purposes.  The park protects the historical Roman architecture and influence on the region. The park also protects the astounding coastline and underwater ruins which may be explored.