The Old City of Nablus
The city is situated on the southern bank of the valley at the base of Mount Gerizim's foothills. It is a site of historical significance, with its origins tracing back to the fourth millennium BC, initially established on the location of Tel Balata (ancient Shechem). The city, located 2 km east of the old town, was later reestablished in 72 AD during the Roman period under the name Neapolis, meaning "new city," built upon the ruins of the earlier Roman settlement.
The city's layout features a main street that runs from the western gate to the eastern entrance, parallel to another street to the north known as Al-Khan Street. These streets are interconnected by various secondary roads and neighborhoods. The city is divided into six residential neighborhoods: Al-Gharb, Al-Yasmina, Al-Aqaba, Al-Qarioun, Qisaria, and Al-Habila. These neighborhoods line the main street, which was named Al-Nasr Street in honor of Saladin's victory over the Crusaders.
During the Ottoman period, the city’s public square and Al-Nasr Mosque were integrated with Al-Khan Street, facilitating continued commercial activity. Notable markets along this street included Al-Haddadin Market, the Onion Market, Khan Al-Tajjar, Khan Al-Wakalah, and Khan Al-Jadid. Each of the six neighborhoods housed various extended families, with dedicated yards for each.
The old town features nine historical mosques, a Samaritan synagogue, several churches, about 15 Islamic shrines, numerous water fountains, and historical palaces belonging to influential families such as the Abd Al-Hadi, Touqan, and Al-Nimr families. It also housed around 40 soap factories and eight public Turkish bathhouses. The city was originally enclosed by six gates, which were opened in the morning and closed in the evening.
In the early 20th century, the city expanded beyond its historical walls. It gained prominence both within and outside Palestine due to its administrative, industrial, and commercial significance, its architectural beauty, abundant water resources, renowned soap exports, and its famous sweets, especially Nabulsi Kunafa. The city attracted numerous foreign and Arab travelers, who praised its charm and referred to it by various names such as the Nest of Scholars, Jabal al-Nar, and Little Damascus.
In recent decades, Nablus has received significant attention from both the municipality and private sector. The old town has become a vibrant commercial and tourist hub, drawing a growing number of visitors from within the city, other Palestinian areas, and international tourists.