Ancient City Skythopolis

The settlement of Tell el-Hoseyn, where Scythopolis emerged, began in the Bronze Age, serving as an important center of Egyptian influence. Egyptian garrisons were stationed here from Thutmose III to Ramses III. In the 10th century BCE, the site belonged to the Kingdom of Israel but lost significance after its destruction in 926 BCE. A refounding as Scythopolis occurred in the mid-3rd century BCE under Ptolemy II, when Scythian cavalry units were stationed there. Under Antiochus IV, the city received the epithet Nysa. After a period under Jewish control, it became a free city and a member of the Decapolis following the Roman conquest. In late antiquity, Scythopolis was a renowned center for linen weaving and was elevated to the provincial capital of Palaestina Secunda in the 4th century. After the Arab conquest in 636, the city gradually declined in importance and was destroyed by an earthquake in 749. In the Middle Ages, the settlement was conquered by Tancred of Taranto in 1099 and fortified by the Crusaders before falling to Sultan Saladin in 1183.

Scythopolis is located in Bet She'an in the Northern District of Israel, at an elevation of approximately -162 m below sea level.

Visitors can explore the extensive ruins of the ancient city today and delve into its rich history.

• Crusader Castle Belvoir (Fortress), approx. 10.5 km away
• Ancient City of Pella (Ancient Buildings), approx. 12.2 km away
• Ancient City of Gadara (Ancient Buildings), approx. 23.8 km away
• Ajloun Castle (Ruin), approx. 28.9 km away