Sepphoris (Tzippori), Israel

City:

Sepphoris

State, Province, Region, or District:

Northern District, Galilee Region

Country:

Israel

Overview

Sepphoris (Tsipori, Tzippori, Zippori) is a city located about 3 miles (5 kilometers) northwest of Nazareth. Because of its close proximity to Nazareth, Sepphoris likely played a part in the life of Jesus and His earthy father, Joseph. Sepphoris employed many carpenters, and because Joseph and Jesus were carpenters, it's very likely they worked here before Jesus started His earthly ministry. Sepphoris was certainly a city on a hill, and in fact, that is what “Sepphoris” means. Jesus could have had this city (among other candidates like Tsfat (Safed)) in mind when He said in Matthew 5:14-15: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.”

In Sepphoris, one can see “Mona Lisa of Galilee.” This mosaic, part of a larger scene depicting the rites of Dionysus, features a young woman with an enigmatic smile, adorned with a wreath and earrings, and blushed cheeks. The woman's faint smile and mysterious gaze have been interpreted as a source of wonder and fascination, similar to the enigmatic smile of Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa.

Sepphoris is also traditionally considered the hometown of Saint Anne and Saint Joachim, the parents of the Virgin Mary. While not explicitly mentioned in the New Testament, ancient traditions place Sepphoris as the location where Mary's parents resided and where Mary may have been born. A 12th-century Crusader church, the Church of St. Anne, was built in Sepphoris, possibly on the site of Mary's parents' home.

Alternate Names

Sepphoris; Tsipori; Tzippori; Zippori

Geography & Location

The ruins of the ancient city are located in the western Lower Galilee, about 4 miles (6 kilometers) northwest of Nazareth, about 14 miles (23 km.) from the Mediterranean Sea, and about 15 miles (25 km.) from the Sea of Galilee.

Biblical, Historical, & Archaeological Background Information

Sepphoris (Tsipori, Tzippori (“birdy”), Zippori), is an ancient archaeological site located in the Lower Galilee region of Israel. It was an important city during the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods.

Architecture

Sepphoris architecture showcases a blend of Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine styles, including a large Roman theater, public buildings like a forum and bathhouses, and wealthy residences with elaborate mosaic floors. The site also features early Christian churches, a 6th-century synagogue, and a Crusader fortress built atop earlier structures, reflecting its long and diverse cultural history.

Biblical & Historical References

Biblical

Spiritual Lessons and Application

Sepphoris was certainly a city on a hill, and in fact, that is what “Sepphoris” means. Jesus could have had this city (among other candidates like Tsfat (Safed)) in mind when He said in Matthew 5:14-15: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house.”

Etymology

Zippori – In Hebrew, the name “Zippor” means bird. Why bird? According to the Babylonian Talmud the “bird” came from its looks – “like a bird on the hill” (Babylonian scroll 6).

Planning a Visit

Disclaimer: The information provided below may not be current. Travel details, entry requirements, and business operations are subject to frequent change due to holidays, seasonal fluctuations, maintenance, staffing levels, weather, and safety considerations. Always double-check with official sources before you go.