Jerusalem through Tel Aviv to Caesarea

Note the Sun shinning on the city of Tel Aviv at a far distance in some of the upcoming pictures

Entering Tel Aviv

Note the Mediterranean Sea on the left side of the road as we approach Caesarea

Caesarea

is an ancient seaport on the Mediterranean Sea; it was founded in 22 BC by King Herod the Great and named it in honor of Caesar Augustus. There are

many ancient ruins including an amphitheater (which is still used today for concerts) and remains of an nearby aqueduct, which provided fresh water to

the city. Apostle Paul used Caesarea as a port city and Peter also was in ministry here.

Next 3 pictures were part of a short movie we watched about the history of Caesarea

Our awesome tour guide "Louie"

Near the amphitheater, a stone tablet was found with an inscription of the name Pontius Pilate, and dedicated to Tiberius Caesar who nominated him as

procurator.  This tablet probably tells that Pilate consecrated a temple of Tiberius in Caesarea.

Ancient Mosaics being protected by sandbags at edge of Mediterranean Sea

A grand entertainment place was built by Herod near his palace - a large Hippodrome in the shape of a long  "U" (50 X 250M), with 10,000 seats  in 12

rows. In this amphitheater the Romans conducted horse races (Hippo in Greek), special events, and games. As can be seen in the photo below, the seats

were organized around a large arena. On the right side is the remains of the the central stage where the rulers and most distinguished guests

watched the games.

Short bus ride down the road to the Aqueduct