Located in a very strategic way between two mountains with an abundance of natural springs, it has been ruled by many empires throughout its long history. In the Old City, several significant archaeological sites are dating back to the 15th century.
It is also the main home to the world’s smallest religious community: the Samaritans; an ethnoreligious group of the Levant that has a parallel but separate religion to Judaism. Just over 700 people live on Mount Gerizim, where they freely practice their rituals and lead a vibrant cultural life. With all its uniqueness, natural beauty, and rich history, It is considered to be an important Palestinian commercial and cultural center, and the capital of the district, with a population of 348,000.
History
Vespasian, the Roman Emperor, founded Flavia Neapolis in 72 CE. Over the course of its almost 2,000-year existence, various emperors have controlled the city. Neapolis, along with the majority of Palestine, was ruled by Umar Ibn al-Islamic Khattab’s Arab Caliphate in 636 CE, at which time its name was changed to Nablus in Arabic.
The ancient city, which includes eight major quarters: Yasmina, Qaryun, Aqaba, Qaysariyya, Habala, Faqous, Naser, and Gharb, is located in the center of Nablus. 9000 people live in the ancient city, which is more densely inhabited than the Nablus district, which is home to 389,328 people.
A Samaritan synagogue, twelve mosques, and two churches may be found close to the residential districts with a high concentration of people.
What can you visit in Nablus ?
What To Do
The climb is a very interesting chance to do you have there Mount Gerizim or Mount Ebal on either side of Nablus for a beautiful view of the city. A small Samaritan community, one of only two left in the world, resides atop Mt. Gerizim, and you can get a look at their temple on the mountaintop.
Gerizim is the holiest place for the Samaritan religion, believed by the Samaritans to be the first piece of land ever created by Lord, and the Samaritan community there offers a tour of their community to visitors. If you can come for their Passover you are in meeting with a colorful festival involving the consumption of lamb and goat sacrifices, comparable to Jewish practices 2,000 years ago.
Nablus soap
Where To Stay
If you want to spend the night in Nablus, there is no possibility you will wind up in an inn’s stable. There are several sizable hotels accessible, all of which are often less expensive than Jerusalem, as well as more charming smaller lodgings.
Weather and Climate in Nablus
The height of Nablus affects its moderate climate, which has pleasant, sunny summers and mild, dry winters (with chilly nights) (during which thunderstorms often break out).
Summers are long, lasting from May to September, with July and August being the hottest months. Temperatures range between 23-36° C (75-96° F) and you can expect 50-90% humidity. The good news is that there is air-conditioning almost everywhere you go, from buses and taxis to malls and hotels. However, it is really important to prepare for these temperatures, especially when spending time outdoors. Buy good sun protection, wear long but cool clothes and make sure to drink plenty of water.
Autumn is, for the most part, a continuation of the summer weather. It does get a little cooler and the humidity drops, so it is more comfortable. The season starts in September and at the end of November it starts getting cooler and we might see a little rain, but not too much. September is usually as warm as summer, but the temperatures in autumn are similar to those of spring and range between 16-24° C (60-75° F).
Depending where you come from you might not even consider the city weather “real winter weather”. This is the wettest time of the year and temperatures range between 6-15° C (42-60° F). Israeli schools have a winter break for Channukah during December, this usually doesn’t affect accommodation but activities tend to get crowded. Also, tourists from nearby countries use their winter breaks to enjoy the warmer temperatures in this city.
Spring is between March and May and this is the ideal time to visit this city. You usually won’t see much rain and the temperatures are mild, ranging between 16-24° C (60-75° F), although the nights might still be chilly. Passover falls in April so if you are planning on visiting during this time keep in mind that prices of flights and accommodation will rise and tend to get booked early.