Archaeologists have uncovered Roman-era architectural remains during excavations in the ancient town of Sebastia (Greek: Σεβαστή) in the West Bank, providing new evidence that could help researchers better understand the site’s history and urban development. The remains were found at the Beit Abed site during excavations carried out from June 13 to July 30, 2026.
The Department of Tourism and Archaeology at An-Najah National University led the project in cooperation with the Institute of Archaeology at Al-Quds University and the Sebastia Municipality. Dr. Luay Abu Al-Saud of An-Najah National University and Professor Salah Al-Houdaliya of Al-Quds University supervised the fieldwork in coordination with the municipality.
Roman remains add to understanding of Sebastia
Researchers identified architectural features and other remains dating to the Roman period. The discoveries provide new archaeological material for studying the development of Sebastia and could lead to more specialized research into the town and its historical significance.
Sebastia, identified with ancient Samaria, had an important history before Roman rule. The city came under Alexander the Great’s control in 332 BC and developed during the Hellenistic period. Alexander’s campaigns transformed much of the eastern Mediterranean and Near East, while Greek cultural influence continued long after his death. More studies have also examined Alexander the Great’s wider impact on the history of the region.
Archaeologists have uncovered Roman-era architectural remains in the ancient Palestinian town of Sebastia.
The historic city, once known as Samaria, came under Alexander the Great’s control in 332 BC and later flourished under Roman rule. pic.twitter.com/tfBALozqCQ— Tom Marvolo Riddle (@tom_riddle2025) September 7, 2026
That Greek influence remained visible during Roman times. Greek continued to be widely used in the eastern Roman world, including for official and legal purposes. A rare Greek-language papyrus discovered in the Judean Desert has provided researchers with evidence of Roman-era legal and administrative life in the region.
Sebastia itself was later renamed Sebaste under Herod. The name came from the Greek word “Sebastos,” the equivalent of the Roman imperial title Augustus.
Students train at an active archaeological site
The latest excavation also served as a field training program for archaeology students, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge at an active site. Students received practical training in systematic excavation, archaeological drawing, photography, documentation, and field recording. They also learned how to examine discoveries within their architectural and historical contexts.
Architectural remains can help researchers reconstruct how Roman-period settlements and complexes were organized. At Megiddo, for example, archaeologists uncovered roads, headquarters, a temple, and other structures at a major Roman legion camp.
The Sebastia program was designed to prepare students for professional work in archaeology and cultural heritage management. It also strengthened cooperation among universities, researchers and local authorities involved in studying and preserving Palestinian archaeological heritage.
The newly uncovered Roman remains now provide additional material for future research at Beit Abed. Further study could help archaeologists build a more detailed picture of the site and its place within Sebastia’s long history.
