Rafidia Village
Rafidia is a small village located on the western side of Nablus, forming part of its modern suburbs. It is built on the northwestern slopes of Mount Gerizim on semi-flat land. The village is known for its fertile agricultural lands and numerous springs, including Ein Al-Bassa, Ein Awida, and Al-Ein Al-Sharqiya. These springs have supported diverse plantations and crops, such as olive trees, citrus fruits, and various vegetables. However, agriculture has declined and disappeared entirely due to urban expansion across the village lands.
The oldest archaeological evidence in Rafidia dates back to the Byzantine period, including remains of mosaic floors, pottery shards, and tombs. The village underwent significant reconstruction during the Crusader period, which included building a church and other structures. The historical center features several traditional buildings from the Ottoman period, notably the old Rafidia Mosque, Musa al-Habashi Church, and several heritage residential houses. Some of these have been recently restored and rehabilitated, such as Al-Hamam Al-Shami, the Guesthouse of Rafidia, and Dar Al-Dawan, now functioning as the Awtar Cultural Center.
Rafidia experienced an early educational renaissance in the 1940s, marked by the establishment of several boys' and girls' schools, some affiliated with Christian associations. The village's lands now host An-Najah National University, the most prominent Palestinian university. Today, Rafidia is a vital residential and commercial center for Nablus.
The village community consists of both Muslims and Christians. Among the oldest Muslim families are the Hassouna and Abu Al-Saud families, whose origins trace back to the village of Kafr Qaddum. The Christian families include the Hazeem, Awida, and Fouda families. Several historic buildings in Rafidia have been restored and rehabilitated as modern restaurants and cafes, enhancing its cultural and social landscape.