Caesarea

Josephus (a major source in what we know about Caesarea) wrote that Caesarea was built in such a grand scale it was known as Little Rome. Previously known as Strato’s Tower, named after the founder of the first known settlement at the site, a Sidonian king named Strato (4th Century B.C.), it had fallen into ruins by the time of Herod the Great, who reigned from 40-4 B.C. 

Herod had survived the turbulent last years of Rome’s civil wars, remaining the client king of Judea. After a meeting with Octavian (known in the Bible as Caesar Augustus), he was reconfirmed of his status with Rome and was granted the territory, which included the ruins of Strato’s Tower. 

Herod was a man of vision and a very astute businessman. He watched ships sail past the coast of Israel to such ports as Alexandria in Egypt and Tyre and Sidon in what is now Lebanon. He envisioned a port that would assume a premier role in the maritime affairs of the Roman world.

Caesarea was intended to be a major trans-shipment point on the busy maritime trade routes leading to Rome from the east. Although his city never surpassed Alexandria, it did achieve an international prominence and importance com-mensurate with Herod’s dream.

When Paul lived in Caesarea, it probably felt more like Rome than Israel; Roman buildings, Roman rulers, and from his vantage point, Roman prisons. For two years, Paul awaited trial and as always, he used every opportunity to tell people of the gospel. 

While in Caesarea, the apostle had the attention of three Roman officials. And Paul, the one who had threatened previously to bring Christians to their knees, now stood before a Roman governor with his arms open wide, saying, "This One I persecuted is in fact the Son of God."

Here are a few facts about this important biblical site:

• As the administrative capital for the Romans, Caesarea represented the official seat of government for several centuries.

• It was a busy port and a naval base of the Roman Empire.

• Pontius Pilate lived here during Jesus’ time.

• Peter baptized Cornelius, the first Gentile convert, here. (Acts 10)

1. • Paul was imprisoned here for more than two years. (Acts 23:23 – 24:27)