Antioch -

: Located on an island in the Orontes, it often housed residing Roman emperors during campaigns against Persia. The Cradle of Christianity

Antioch holds a unique status in religious history as the place where followers of Jesus were first called "Christians" (Acts 11:26). Following the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 CE, it emerged as the primary hub of Christian influence in the East. antioch

: Paved with granite and marble, this massive artery connected the city's highlands to the sea. : Located on an island in the Orontes,

: A chariot-racing venue modeled after Rome's Circus Maximus, capable of holding 80,000 spectators. : Paved with granite and marble, this massive

Under Roman rule beginning in 64 BCE, Antioch became the capital of the province of Syria. At its zenith, the city housed up to 500,000 residents and was renowned for its architectural splendor, including: