Sepphoris Citadel

Sepphoris—ancient Zippori, and Diocaesarea—is located 4 mi. [6.4 km.] northwest of Nazareth. It was an important Jewish city from the Hellenistic/Hasmonean period through the Byzantine Era (second century B.C. to seventh century A.D.). During the late Roman Period (second and third centuries A.D.) it was an important center for Jewish learning—indeed Judah the Prince compiled the Mishnah there.

At various times it served as the capital of Galilee. It had been destroyed in 4 B.C. by the Roman legate Varus, but was soon rebuilt and served as the capital of Herod Antipas until Tiberias replaced it (A.D. 20). This “rebuild” occurred during the childhood of Jesus, and many have speculated that possibly Joseph, as a “builder” (tekton) may have been involved in its reconstruction. However, archaeological and literary sources indicate the Jewish, not pagan, character of the city at this time.

It has been excavated by no fewer than six(!) archaeological expeditions and the finds have been spectacular: theater, Mansion Mosaic, Nile Mosaic, Synagogue Mosaic, etc.