The Old City of Nablus is the historic heart of one of Palestine’s largest and most culturally significant cities. With a history stretching back millennia to the Canaanite city of Shechem, the current Old City was established as the Roman city of “Neapolis” (New City). It is a dense, living labyrinth of narrow, stone-paved alleyways, vaulted souqs, ancient mosques, historic hammams (Turkish baths), and grand family palaces. Renowned for its resilient spirit, traditional industries, and culinary delights, the Old City of Nablus offers a captivating immersion into the architectural and cultural heritage of the Levant, earning it the nickname “Little Damascus.”

Name and Address

• Name: The Old City of Nablus.
• Address: Located in the center of the modern city of Nablus, in the northern West Bank, Palestine.

How to Get There

Nablus is a major Palestinian city and serves as a transportation hub for the northern West Bank.

• From Jerusalem/Ramallah: This is the most common route for international visitors. First, take a bus or shared taxi (servees) from Jerusalem to Ramallah. From the main bus station in Ramallah, you can easily find a servees directly to Nablus. The journey from Ramallah takes approximately 1-1.5 hours.
• Access: The Old City is a pedestrian-focused area. The best way to explore is to be dropped off by a taxi at its edge and enter on foot. The main entrances are near the central Manara Clock Tower or through the bustling souqs.
• Visitor Tip: The Old City is a genuine, working urban center, not just a tourist site. It’s best to visit during the day when the markets are open and the streets are full of life. Hiring a local guide is highly recommended to navigate the maze-like alleys and understand the rich history of the buildings.

Landscape and Architecture

The Old City’s landscape is a classic example of a densely packed, traditional Levantine city, shaped by its geography and history.

• Valley Setting: The city is nestled in a narrow valley between two prominent mountains: Mount Ebal to the north and the sacred Mount Gerizim (home to the Samaritan community) to the south. This geography has historically influenced its linear, east-west layout.
• Urban Fabric: The Old City is a compact maze of narrow, winding alleyways and vaulted stone passages that provide shade and create a unique, intimate atmosphere. The architecture is predominantly from the Ottoman and Mamluk periods, built with local limestone.
• The Six Quarters: The city is traditionally divided into six main quarters (harat): Al-Gharb, Al-Yasmina, Al-Aqaba, Al-Qarioun, Qisaria, and Al-Habila, each with its own distinct character and history.
• Key Structures: The Old City is rich with historic buildings, including:
  • Mosques: The Great Mosque of Nablus, originally a Byzantine church, is the largest mosque in the Old City.
  • Hammams (Turkish Baths): The historic Hammam al-Shifa, still in operation, offers a glimpse into centuries-old social traditions.
  • Soap Factories: Nablus is famous for its traditional olive oil soap, and several historic, family-run soap factories can be visited.
  • Souqs (Markets): A network of bustling, covered markets sells everything from spices and sweets to textiles and crafts.
  • Khans (Caravanserais): Ancient inns that once served traders on historic caravan routes.

What Makes It Famous

Nablus is famous for its vibrant cultural heritage, its world-renowned traditional products, and its historical resilience.

• Nabulsi Knafeh: The city’s most famous export. Nablus is the undisputed home of knafeh, a legendary sweet pastry made with soft white cheese, shredded phyllo dough, and soaked in a sweet syrup.
• Nabulsi Soap: For centuries, Nablus has been famous for producing a pure, olive oil-based soap. Visiting a traditional soap factory is a key part of the Nablus experience.
• “Little Damascus”: The city is often called this due to the strong architectural and atmospheric similarities between its Old City and that of Damascus, Syria.
• Ancient History: The area is the site of the ancient Canaanite and Israelite city of Shechem and the Roman city of Neapolis. Nearby sites like Jacob’s Well and Joseph’s Tomb have deep biblical significance.
• The Samaritans: The adjacent Mount Gerizim is the holiest site for the Samaritans, one of the world’s oldest and smallest religious communities, who have a deep and ancient connection to the Nablus area.

Differences from Other Wonders

The Old City of Nablus offers a unique experience that sets it apart from other ancient cities in the region.

• A Center of Commerce and Industry vs. a Primary Pilgrimage Site: While the Old City of Jerusalem is defined by its status as a supreme holy site for three world religions, the Old City of Nablus has historically been, and remains, a powerful center of commerce, industry (soap), and culinary arts (knafeh). Its identity is more tied to its role as a Palestinian cultural and economic capital.
• Living Heritage vs. Preserved Monument: Unlike a purely archaeological site, the Old City of Nablus is a vibrant, living city. Its souqs are not just for tourists; they are the daily shopping destination for thousands of residents. Its industries are not just museum pieces; they are still in operation.
• A Different Urban Scale and Atmosphere: Compared to the monumental scale of Jerusalem’s walls and holy sites, Nablus offers a more intimate and less overwhelming experience. Its charm lies in the discovery of its hidden courtyards, the smell of spices and soap in its narrow alleys, and the authentic energy of its daily life.