Hippos

Hippos Sussita: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites in Northern District, Israel

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Perched atop a commanding hill 350 meters above the eastern shore of the Sea of Galilee, Hippos—also known as Sussita—is a captivating archaeological site in Israel’s Northern District. With origins dating back to the Chalcolithic period, Hippos flourished through the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and early Islamic eras, serving as a strategic, cultural, and religious center. Today, as a protected national park, Hippos offers visitors a journey through millennia of history with breathtaking views, extensive ruins, and immersive educational experiences. Whether you are a history enthusiast, traveler, or aspiring archaeological volunteer, Hippos is an essential destination for anyone exploring the Golan Heights and surrounding regions (Israel Nature and Parks Authority, Hippos Excavations Project, Times of Israel).

Historical Overview
Archaeological and Architectural Significance
Cultural and Religious Legacy
Visitor Information
Archaeological Highlights
Practical Visitor Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion
References and Useful Links

Historical Overview

Early Settlement and Naming

Hippos’ earliest occupation traces back to the Chalcolithic period. The city’s Greek name, Hippos (Ἵππος, meaning “horse”), is echoed in its Aramaic and Hebrew name, Sussita (סוסיתא), and in Arabic as Qal’at al-Ḥiṣn (“Fortress of the Horse”). This reflects a blend of Hellenistic and Semitic traditions.

Hellenistic and Roman Periods

Founded in the mid-2nd century BCE under the Seleucid dynasty, Hippos became a prominent member of the Decapolis—ten Hellenized cities in the eastern Roman Empire. Its strategic hilltop location provided natural defenses and panoramic views, fostering growth as a center of Greek culture and urban planning. During Roman rule (64 BCE–mid-4th century CE), Hippos experienced prosperity, featuring fortified walls, public basilicas, an odeon, luxurious baths, and a sophisticated water system. Its population included pagans, Jews, and later Christians.

Byzantine Christianization

From the 4th to the 7th centuries CE, Hippos emerged as an important Christian center and bishopric. Archaeologists have uncovered at least seven churches, including a grand cathedral and baptistery, many adorned with intricate mosaics. The city’s ecclesiastical architecture is a testament to its religious significance during this era.

Early Islamic Period and Decline

Although Hippos remained predominantly Christian after the Muslim conquest in the 7th century CE, the city declined following a devastating earthquake in 749 CE, which led to its abandonment.

Modern Rediscovery and Archaeology

Rediscovered in the 19th century, Hippos later served as a military outpost through the mid-20th century. Systematic archaeological excavations resumed in 2000, revealing the city’s main gate, forum, churches, and daily life artifacts. Today, Hippos is preserved as a national park and active archaeological site.

Archaeological and Architectural Significance

Excavations have highlighted Hippos’ impressive urban layout and architectural features:

Main Thoroughfare: The Decumanus Maximus, a 550-meter-long basalt-paved street once lined with 500 columns, is a central highlight (Times of Israel).
Religious Structures: At least seven Byzantine churches—several with well-preserved mosaics and baptismal fonts—demonstrate the city’s transformation into a Christian center.
Public Buildings: Remains of the forum, basilica, odeon (council hall), theater, and bathhouse illustrate Roman and Byzantine civic life.
Water Systems: Advanced aqueducts and large cisterns under the forum and bathhouse underscore the city’s engineering prowess (dighippos.com).

The catastrophic 749 CE earthquake left much of the city in ruins, but its isolation preserved many structures for modern exploration.

Cultural and Religious Legacy

As a Decapolis city, Hippos was a melting pot of Greek, Roman, Jewish, and Christian traditions. The transition from paganism to Christianity is evident in the city’s religious architecture, mosaics, and inscriptions. Hippos also played a role in modern history: during the 1948 War of Independence, it was a Syrian outpost, later captured by Israeli forces and memorialized by modern monuments (Times of Israel).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Hours: Generally open Sunday–Thursday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; Fridays and holidays, 8:00 AM–3:00 PM. Closed on Saturdays during winter. Check the official website for seasonal updates.
Tickets: Admission for adults is 29 NIS; children (5–17) 15 NIS; discounts for students/seniors; under-5s free. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online.

Getting There

By Car: The site is accessible primarily by car. Park near the national park sign and walk up a dirt path along the ridge (Rachel’s Ruminations). The path is moderately challenging—suitable footwear is essential.
Public Transport: Nearest bus-served towns are Ein Gev and Kursi; a taxi/private transfer is needed for the final stretch.

Accessibility

Terrain is steep and uneven; the site is not wheelchair accessible. Some paved paths exist near the entrance, but most exploration requires walking on dirt trails.
Visitors with mobility concerns should contact the park in advance.

Facilities and Amenities

There are no restrooms, food vendors, or water fountains on site. Bring water, snacks, sun protection, and prepare for a lack of shelter.
Nearest amenities (restaurants, shops, restrooms) are in Ein Gev or Kursi.

Guided Tours and Volunteering

Occasional guided tours and special events are offered, especially during summer excavation seasons (Field Sciences).
Volunteers aged 16+ can join the Hippos Excavations Project, assisting with digs and artifact processing (Gil Travel).

Archaeological Highlights

Forum and Basilica

The forum was Hippos’ civic heart: a grand public square flanked by colonnaded streets and the basilica, which served both administrative and religious functions (dannythedigger.com, sareltours.com).

Odeon and Theater

The odeon (council hall) and small theater hosted civic meetings, performances, and community events. Their semicircular designs and preserved seating areas reflect vibrant public life.

Decumanus and Water Systems

Hippos’ main street, the Decumanus, crossed the city and was lined with shops and residences. An aqueduct beneath the avenue supplied water to the bathhouse and central reservoir (dighippos.com).

Byzantine Churches and Mosaics

At least eight churches from the Byzantine era feature mosaic floors, apse mosaics, and baptismal fonts. Notable is a fifth-century mosaic depicting a basket of loaves—possibly alluding to the New Testament miracle (dannythedigger.com).

Bathhouse Complex

The Roman bathhouse, with its hypocaust (underfloor heating) and pools, was a hub for hygiene and socialization (dighippos.com).

Defensive Structures and Modern Relics

Robust basalt and limestone city walls, towers, and gates encircle Hippos. Modern relics include IDF trenches and a 1948 cable car—the latter used to supply outposts during the War of Independence (sareltours.com).

Panoramic Vistas

Hippos’ summit offers sweeping views of the Sea of Galilee, Golan Heights, and surrounding landscapes—ideal for photography and reflection (dighippos.com).

Practical Visitor Tips

Arrive early for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Wear sturdy footwear and bring a hat, sunscreen, and at least 2 liters of water.
Plan for no amenities on site—pack snacks and carry out all trash.
Stay on marked paths for safety (minefields remain off-trail).
Combine Hippos with visits to nearby sites like Kursi National Park, Capernaum, or Gamla.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the official visiting hours?
A: Generally 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (Sunday–Thursday), 8:00 AM–3:00 PM (Fridays/holidays); last entry 30 minutes before closing. Check the website for seasonal updates.

Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Adults 29 NIS, children 15 NIS, discounts for students/seniors, children under 5 free.

Q: Is the site wheelchair accessible?
A: The terrain is steep and uneven; wheelchair access is limited to some paved paths near the entrance.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasional tours and workshops are available, particularly during excavation seasons.

Q: Can I volunteer at Hippos?
A: Yes, through the Hippos Excavations Project—see official channels for details.

Q: Are there restrooms or food vendors on site?
A: No, plan accordingly and use facilities in nearby towns.

Conclusion

Hippos (Sussita) offers a unique blend of archaeological wonder, panoramic beauty, and rich history. From its Hellenistic foundations and Roman grandeur to its Byzantine Christian heritage and modern military significance, Hippos is a window into the region’s layered past. Prepare well, respect site preservation, and immerse yourself in this extraordinary landmark. For updates, guided tours, and volunteering opportunities, consult official resources and consider downloading the Audiala app for audio guides and visitor alerts.