The Shrine of Sheikh Sha’la or Shu'ala
The name of the site is derived from its owner, Sheikh Sha’la. It is situated on a mountain peak in the Nablus mountain range, approximately 3 km east of the road connecting Nablus to Jenin, which passes through the village of Naqura. The site overlooks Sebastia from the southeastern heights, bordered to the west by Naqura village and surrounded by mountainous terrain to the south and east.
This historic castle, perched at about 560 meters above sea level, occupies a strategic position with commanding views over a broad area. Its elevated location and rugged terrain made it a formidable natural defense against invaders. Its strategic importance is further highlighted by its role as a key point between Sebastia and Nablus, one of the region's most significant historical cities. Nearby, at the western base of the mountain, lies the spring of Ein Haroun, which has historically been the sole water source for Sebastia.
Archaeological evidence, including architectural remains, pottery, and mosaics, suggests that the site was occupied during the Roman period. In the fifth century AD, the location was repurposed as a church dedicated to Prophet Elias, measuring 20×17.5 meters. The church was surrounded by residential buildings and a defensive wall. A Greek inscription still remains over the castle’s western entrance. During the Mamluk period, a small castle was built on the ruins of the church.
The shrine at the site is a small, square, ruined room located at the western end of the hill. It is believed to have been constructed between the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries during the late Ottoman period. The castle was later restored by a local ruler from the Al-Kayed family, who added an additional room to the northern wall and an open yard with a water well to the western section. The yard was connected to various random rooms and livestock areas. An upper floor was added, featuring an open yard, three rooms, and an iwan designed in the style of the Throne Village palaces common in the late Ottoman period.
Eventually, the upper floor and the added rooms on the ground floor collapsed, and much of the building material was repurposed for new constructions in the surrounding villages. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, in collaboration with the Naqura Village Council, has since undertaken cleaning and restoration efforts to preserve this important historical and archaeological site, which is a key attraction along local tourist routes.